Equal property rights for spouse?

MUMBAI: Maharastra government is considering introduction of a bill that grants equal rights to a married woman in property acquired and controlled by her husband.

The state commission for women has recommended the bill to lend financial independence and security to women. The state women and child development department has convened a meeting of NGOs and legal experts on October 25. Varsha Gaikwad, minister, women and child development department, said the commission submitted a concept plan of the proposed legislation and a draft will be discussed at the meeting.

Realising that the legislation could have a far-reaching impact, Gaikwad said her department plans to seek people’s suggestions. The commission wants a Married Persons’ Equality Bill to come into force that will grant legal property rights to women, regardless of religion in their natal and marital families and proposes inclusion of the wife’s name as co-owner in properties held by her husband.