In recent years, overseas marriages with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) have gained popularity, promising financial stability and a better quality of life. However, a disturbing trend has emerged—many women find themselves abandoned by their NRI spouses, left in distress with little to no legal recourse. This issue has raised significant concerns among families, legal experts, and policymakers.

The Alarming Rise in NRI Marital Desertion

A growing number of cases have come to light where women, after marrying NRIs, are either left behind in India or abandoned after relocating abroad. These women often face emotional, financial, and legal hardships. Some common patterns include:

• The husband vanishes after the wedding, cutting off all communication.
• The wife is taken abroad but is later abandoned without support, sometimes even facing domestic violence or dowry harassment.
• False promises of visa sponsorship, leading to women being stranded in India.
• Marriages performed fraudulently with the husband already married abroad.

Legal and Social Challenges

One of the biggest challenges in these cases is the jurisdictional complexity. Since NRI marriages often involve cross-border legal matters, obtaining justice can be difficult. Victims frequently struggle to:

• Locate their estranged spouses, who may have changed residences or contact details.
• File legal proceedings in a foreign country where they have little knowledge of the legal system.
• Seek financial support or alimony due to differing laws on divorce and maintenance across countries.
• Get assistance from Indian authorities, as many cases remain unresolved due to a lack of cooperation from foreign governments.

Government Initiatives and Legal Remedies

Recognizing the severity of the issue, the Indian government has taken several steps to address NRI marital desertion. Some key initiatives include:

• Compulsory registration of NRI marriages: This ensures legal recognition and tracking of NRI marriages.
• Passport impoundment and visa cancellation: In cases of desertion or domestic violence, the government can revoke the offender’s passport.
• Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties (MLATs): Agreements with foreign countries to ensure legal cooperation in such matters.
• Helplines and legal aid: Various NGOs and government agencies offer support services to affected women.

Preventive Measures for Prospective Brides and Families

While legal remedies exist, prevention remains the best approach. Families should take proactive steps to safeguard their daughters:

• Verify the groom’s background: Conduct thorough checks on employment, marital status, and financial stability.
• Ensure proper documentation: Marriage registration and legal agreements help establish rights.
• Be cautious about dowry demands: Many cases of desertion involve dowry harassment.
• Understand visa and immigration laws: Gaining awareness of legal rights in the destination country can prevent future complications.

NRI marriages can bring happiness and prosperity, but they also come with risks that cannot be ignored. By staying informed, taking preventive measures, and advocating for stricter laws, we can work towards protecting women from fraudulent marriages and ensuring justice for those who have been wronged.

At Murvin NRI Services, we are dedicated to assisting women facing issues related to NRI marriages. If you or someone you know needs legal guidance, reach out to us for professional support and advocacy.