Tamil Nadu Notifies Anand Marriage Registration Rules, Brings Major Relief to Sikh Community

Chennai:
In a significant move providing long-awaited relief to the Sikh community, the Tamil Nadu government has officially notified the Anand Marriage Registration Rules, 2026, paving the way for smooth and uniform registration of Sikh marriages across the state.

The rules were notified by the MK Stalin–led DMK government ahead of the Assembly elections, following clear directions issued by the Supreme Court of India last year, which asked all states to frame specific regulations for the registration of Sikh marriages solemnised under the Anand Marriage Act.

Uniform System for Sikh Marriages

With the notification of the rules, Sikh couples who solemnise their marriage through Anand Karaj—the traditional Sikh wedding ceremony—will no longer face administrative hurdles or confusion during official registration. The move brings Tamil Nadu in line with several other states that have already framed similar regulations.

Anand Karaj, performed in the presence of the Guru Granth Sahib and involving the sacred four Laavan, has long enjoyed religious validity within the Sikh faith. However, the absence of state-specific registration rules often caused difficulties for couples in matters related to identity documents, inheritance, visas, banking, and other civil requirements.

Easy and Flexible Registration Process

Under the newly notified rules, any Anand Marriage solemnised anywhere in Tamil Nadu can be registered with the Marriage Registrar. Registration can be done either:

• at the place where the marriage was solemnised, or
• at the place where either of the spouses ordinarily resides.

The government has clarified that both past and future Anand marriages will be eligible for registration under these rules.

Long-Standing Demand Fulfilled

The Sikh community in Tamil Nadu had been demanding a separate and clear framework for the registration of Anand marriages for several years. The issue gained momentum after the Supreme Court, in September last year, directed states to ensure non-discriminatory registration of Sikh marriages until formal rules were framed.

The Tamil Nadu government said the notification removes ambiguity and ensures uniformity, dignity, and legal certainty for Sikh couples.

Documents Required for Registration

As per the rules:

• Both parties must submit a joint application in the prescribed format.
• Proof of age, identity, and residence must be attached.
• Accepted documents for age proof include birth certificates, school records, passports, or government-issued identity cards.
• The rules also ensure compliance with the legally prescribed minimum age for marriage.

Compliance with Supreme Court Directions

The Supreme Court had earlier ruled that Anand Karaj marriages must be registered without discrimination under existing laws until states notified specific rules. With Tamil Nadu now officially notifying the Anand Marriage Registration Rules, 2026, the state has fully complied with the apex court’s directives.

A Step Towards Inclusive Governance

The notification of these rules is being seen as a major step towards inclusive governance and protection of minority rights, ensuring that religious traditions are respected while also providing full legal recognition under civil law.