Question

The law that permitted widows to remarry (Hindu Widows' Remarriage Act) was passed in the year:

1. 1858
2. 1855
3. 1856
4. 1854

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 3 : 1856

The correct answer is 1856.

• Hindu Widows' Remarriage Act
  • It was passed on 16th July 1856.
  • It legalised the remarriage of Hindu widows in all jurisdictions of India under East India Company rule.
  • It was drafted by Lord Dalhousie and passed by Lord Canning.
  • It said that no marriage contracted between Hindus shall be invalid, and the issue of no such marriage shall be illegitimate, by reason of the woman having been previously married.
  • Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar was the most prominent campaigner for Hindu widow remarriage and petitioned the Legislative council despite severe opposition from Radhakanta Deb and the Dharma Sabha.