Young Girls

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Indian legal system provides equal inheritance rights to the daughters

Girls should be aware that they have the same inheritance rights as boys. Girls should also put effort into creating awareness among their friends and family members, such as parents and siblings. Indian legal system provides equal inheritance rights to both sons and daughters. A fair share in your inheritance will make a significant positive difference in your life, beginning with self-respect and good standing in the family and society.

This page has information about the legal inheritance rights of girls and guidance about creating awareness of those rights among your friends and family members.

Legal Context

The Hindu Succession (Amendment) Act, 2005, which came into effect on September 9, 2005, made important changes to the law to promote gender equality in India. It granted daughters the right to inherit property alongside sons, and it ensured that women have the same rights as men to own and sell property without needing permission. This amendment also removed the practice of excluding women from sharing ancestral property, allowing daughters to become co-owners by birth. Overall, these changes aimed to eliminate discrimination and provide equal rights for women in matters of inheritance and property ownership.

Read about Hindu Succession Act

Indian Mindset

Legal protections are not enough to prevent unfair inheritance practices in India, which are still heavily influenced by deep-rooted societal norms. Regrettably, parents often prioritize sons over daughters, operating under the assumption that girls will cease to be part of the family once they marry. Another prevailing belief is that girls receive their inheritance through dowry and gifts to their family after marriage. However, the stark reality is that these dowries and gifts seldom equate to the rightful share of the inheritance. Consequently, this ingrained mindset places girls at a significant disadvantage right from the outset of their lives.

How you can contribute

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Talk about your inheritance

Start a discussion about your inheritance with your friends and family members. Share links of this website with them.

Sign the Pledge

As a family sign the RY Pledge to give equal inheritance rights to daughter(s) and son(s) of the family.