Women’s Property Rights in India: What You Should Know
The Hindu Succession Act, 1956
• The original act set the foundation for women’s inheritance rights.• Section 14: Turning point, gave women full control over their assets.• Section 16: Property distribution among the heir, including daughters.
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Amendments to Section 6
• Gave equal rights to their father's property.• Led to them being treated as joint heirs from birth.
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Stridhan and Marital Property
• Section 14 (1): Solidifies women's full ownership over Stridhan and marital property.
• Section 17: Establishes a woman's right to her matrimonial home.
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Devolution of Property
• Section 22: Ensures property passed down irrespective of gender. Organizes the process & classifies line of succession.
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Special Marriage Act, 1954
• Section 27: In case of divorce, a woman has a legal claim to a portion of his husband's property.
Some Common Challenges Faced by Women
• Societal norms• Lack of legal knowledge• Bureaucratic obstacles
Mechanisms That Contribute to Resolution
• Free legal aid• Women's help desk• Awareness Campaigns
Conclusion
• Empowering women through comprehensive legal knowledge.• The ongoing journey towards economic self-reliance and empowerment.