Hindus are seeking equality for minority religions and denominations in United Kingdom (UK) marriage law.
A government website, under “Religious ceremonies” in “Marriages and civil partnerships in the UK”, states: “You don’t usually need to give notice with the register office if you’re getting married in an Anglican church...”
In “Jewish and Quaker marriages” and “Non-Anglican Christian marriages and all other religions”: “You need to give notice with the register office at least 28 days before the ceremony”.
Religious statesman Rajan Zed, asked: Should not all Britons be treated equally before the law irrespective of their religions/denominations?
Rajan Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, pointed out that it was 21st century now where UK was a diverse society comprising of various faith traditions. UK marriage regulations, seemed to be out of step with the times, needed a serious overhaul treating all religions/denominations at equal level.
However Neel Patani from City Hindus Network told Asian Voice, “The current structure dates back to the English Reformation in the 16th century, following the UK splitting away from the Roman Catholic Church. In some respects this may be regarded as antiquated, but in practice serves 2 purposes. First, it provides an opportunity for the individuals in question to take time to ensure they are not rushing their decision to get married. And second, ensures that there is time for the formal and necessary background checks to be completed by the state on the probity of the marriage.”
