Anand Marriage registration rules for Sikh marriages

UP’s Anand Marriage Registration Rules: what happened?

Sikh marriages follow the Anand Karaj ceremony. A central law has recognised them since 1909, and a 2012 amendment allowed registration. But states had to frame rules first. Without rules, Sikh couples had to register under other laws. The Supreme Court asked states to act.

• Registrars: SDM at tehsil level, DM at district level, Divisional Commissioner at division level.
• The Director, Minority Welfare and Waqf, is the Chief Registrar at state headquarters.
• Applications after three months follow a process with a late fee.
• Appeals lie from the Registrar to the District Registrar, and then to the Divisional Registrar.

What did the Supreme Court say?

• In Writ Petition (Civil) 911/2022, Amanjot Singh Chadha vs Union of India, the Court gave directions on 4 September 2025.
• UP’s rules comply with these directions.

Why does UP’s Anand Marriage Registration Rules matter?

• Minority rights: Sikh couples can register marriages under their own law.
• Women’s rights: Registration helps in proof of marriage, maintenance and inheritance.

What can Prelims ask on UP’s Anand Marriage Registration Rules?

• Anand Marriage Act, 1909, amended 2012; Section 6 lets states make registration rules.
• UP Anand Marriage Registration Rules, 2026: ₹1,500 fee; apply within three months.