Wed Mar 05 12:39:43 UTC 2025: ## Delhi High Court Raps Centre, Delhi Govt Over Unimplemented Marriage Registration Law
**New Delhi:** The Delhi High Court on Wednesday sharply criticized the central and Delhi governments for their failure to fully implement a 2006 Supreme Court order mandating compulsory marriage registration. The court described the lack of compliance as “pathetic and appalling,” noting that the order, requiring registration irrespective of religious affiliation, remains largely unfulfilled.
The court’s rebuke came during a hearing on a petition demanding a centralized national database for marriage registrations. The petitioner, Aakash Goel, argued that the existing system, based on the 2014 Delhi (Compulsory Registration of Marriage) order, is inadequate, creating hardship for citizens and failing to meet the Supreme Court’s objectives. Goel highlighted deficiencies and loopholes in the current rules, which he claims were brought to the attention of both governments.
The High Court issued notices to both the central and Delhi governments, giving them three months to comply with the Supreme Court’s directive. The court rejected the Delhi government’s claim that existing rules sufficiently address the issue, stating that legislative action, not just executive orders, is required. The court emphasized the need for a system that ensures smooth and efficient marriage registration, adding that such matters should not require court intervention.
The petition further seeks the creation of a centralized national database to prevent individuals from registering multiple marriages in different states. It also proposes online registration with virtual witness capabilities to modernize the process. The next hearing is scheduled for July 9th, where the governments are expected to present their plans for compliance.
First Piper 