This Act may be called the Indian Divorce Act, and shall come into operation on the first day of April, 1869.
Key Elements of Section 1:
- Short Title:
- This section formally names the legislation as the “Indian Divorce Act.”
- The title is important as it identifies the Act in legal references, documents, and proceedings.
- Date of Commencement:
- It explicitly states that the Act came into effect on April 1, 1869.
- This date marks the formal applicability of the law, providing a historical context for its operational timeline.
Significance of Section 1:
- Foundational Provision: This section sets the framework for the Act by defining its name and operational commencement. It ensures clarity for any legal practitioner or individual referencing the Act.
- Historical Context: The Indian Divorce Act was introduced during British rule and was tailored primarily for Christian citizens. At that time, personal laws for different religious communities were being codified.
- Applicability: While the short title itself does not detail the scope, it lays the groundwork for subsequent sections that elaborate on its jurisdiction and implementation.
