Dr. B.R. Ambedkar National Law University, Sonepat under a project on “NRI Marriages:Do's & Don'ts - A Way Forward” sponsored by National Commission for Women, New Delhi organized an awareness programme in Panchkula district at Government P.G. College for Women, Sectors-14, Panchkula, Haryana. The event was organised under the Chairpersonship of Prof. Archana Mishra, Vice-Chancellor of the University. There were two sessions of this event. The first session was the Inaugural Session and the second was the Technical Session. This event brought together legal experts, law enforcement officials, social workers, and academicians to discuss the complexities and challenges surrounding marriages involving Non-Resident Indians (NRIs).
In the Inaugural Session Justice Vinod S. Bhardwaj, Judge Punjab & Haryana High Court was the Chief Guest. Sh. Alok Mittal, ADGP, Haryana was the Guest of Honour. Dr. R.C. Mishra, Former DGP, and Managing Director, Haryana Police Housing Corporation; Sh. A. Asholi Chalai, Joint Secretary, National Commission for Women and Ms. Himadree Kaushik, DCP, Panchkula were the distinguished guests. This diverse panel of speakers underscored this program's multi-disciplinary approach to addressing the complex issues surrounding NRI marriages.
Dr. Balwinder Kaur presented a comprehensive concept note, while vice- chancellor Prof. Archana Mishra delivered the welcome address. Prof. Mishra highlighted the significance of addressing the complexities surrounding NRI marriages and the importance of such forums in fostering awareness and understanding among the community. She said that the University is progressively moving ahead in the field of research day by day and under this project 10 awareness in different districts will be organised in collaboration with National Commission for Women which will be very helpful for the common masses for getting awareness relating to the issues involved in the NRI marriages. She also expressed her gratitude to the distinguished guests, faculty members, and participants for their presence and contributions to the event, setting a collaborative tone for the insightful sessions to follow.
Justice Vinod S. Bhardwaj, Judge of the Punjab & Haryana High Court, graced the Awareness Program as chief guest. In his address, Justice Bhardwaj mentioned that NRI marriage is a trophy marriage and talks about how often inhumane treatment is given to women. He asserts that how one being aware of their legal right can come out of this fraud. He stated that women are not stepping stones of their family moving abroad. He commended the initiative taken by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar National Law University for organizing such an important event and encouraged continuous dialogue and education to address the evolving issues in NRI marriages. His insights and perspectives added a valuable dimension to the program, inspiring further deliberation and action among the attendees.
Sh. Alok Mittal, IPS, Additional Director General of Police (ADGP), Haryana, addressed the gathering. He began by explaining the term NRI (Non-Resident Indian), highlighting its legal implications and the nuances associated with it. Shri Mittal emphasized that it is crucial to view NRI marriages through a "legal mirror," underscoring the importance of understanding the legal framework and potential challenges in such unions. He warned against complacency with the phrase "savdhani hatti, durghatna ghati," meaning "caution removed, accident occurred," to stress the importance of being vigilant and well-informed. He urged the audience to be aware of the legal procedures and rights involved, thus ensuring protection and justice for all parties. His address was both enlightening and thought-provoking, offering practical advice and cautionary measures for those navigating the complexities of NRI marriages.
Dr. R.C. Mishra, IPS (Retd.) Former DGP, and Managing Director, Haryana Police Housing Corporation, delivered an engaging and impactful address. Drawing from his extensive experience in law enforcement, Dr. Mishra emphasized the importance of due diligence when entering into NRI marriages. He advised the audience to thoroughly look into the background of the concerned person they are going to marry, suggesting that one should check their portfolio, character, and even discreetly gather information or "stalk" them if necessary to ensure authenticity. He highlighted that taking such precautions is crucial in safeguarding against potential fraud or deceit. He stressed the importance of being cautious and well-informed, urging individuals to take proactive steps to verify the character and intentions of their prospective partners.
Ms. Himadree Kaushik, IPS, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Panchkula, delivered a compelling address at the event on August 3, 2024. Drawing from her extensive experience in law enforcement, Ms. Kaushik shed light on the practical challenges and complexities that NRI marriages often present from a policing perspective. She highlighted the fact how NRI Marriage fraud is played in order to receive dowry. She emphasized the importance of vigilance, legal awareness, and the need for effective law enforcement strategies to address issues such as fraud, abandonment, and domestic violence. Ms. Kaushik stressed the role of collaborative efforts between the police, legal professionals, and the community in safeguarding the rights and well-being of individuals affected by NRI marriages. Her address provided valuable insights and reinforced the necessity for a concerted approach to tackle these pressing issues.
Sh. A. Asholi Chalai, Joint Secretary of the National Commission for Women, provided an insightful address at the event on August 3, 2024. He discussed the critical role of the National Commission for Women in addressing the issues faced by women in NRI marriages, including legal challenges and social implications. He noted that NRI marriages represent a new form of marital relationship, bringing unique challenges. Sh. Chalai shared that there have been 1,734 complaints of NRI marriage fraud in India, with 467 cases originating from Haryana. He stressed the need for resources and support systems for NRI women, who often struggle with the legal system.
Prof. Ashutosh Mishra, Dean of Academic Affairs, in his concluding remarks, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all the distinguished guests, speakers, and participants for their valuable contributions to the program. He acknowledged the efforts of the organizers and the dedication of the university's faculty and staff in making the event a success. He reiterated the university's commitment to fostering an environment of learning and awareness, especially on pertinent social and legal issues.
The Technical Session of this Awareness Program was an enlightening segment that provided in-depth analysis and expert insights into the legal, social, and practical aspects of NRI marriages. Esteemed Chairperson of the session, Co-chairpersons and resource persons including Prof. Pam Rajput, Professor Emeritus, Dr. Seema Gupta, Associate Professor, UILS, Chandigarh University; Mrs. Savita Saxena, Advocate and Mediator; Mrs. Akanksha Yadav, representative of the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Panchkula; Mrs. Renu Bhardwaj, Social Worker; shared their knowledge on various topics, such as legal safeguards, redressal mechanisms, and the importance of due diligence. The session highlighted the complexities of cross-border marriages and emphasized the need for awareness and precaution. Through engaging discussions and real-life case studies, the session offered valuable advice and strategies for navigating the challenges associated with NRI marriages. The Dr. Richa Setia, Principal of PG College for Women Sec. 14, Panchkula, teaching and non-teaching staff of the organising University PG College, students of both the institutions and police personnel were also present during these sessions.