Karnataka High Court: Non-Registration of Marriage Under Foreign Marriage Act Doesn’t Invalidate Marriage

The Karnataka High Court held that marriages not registered under the Foreign Marriage Act, 1969, are not automatically void and can still be valid under personal law or the law of the country where solemnised.

Justice Ramachandra D Huddar ruled that procedural lapses don't negate genuine marital relationships, especially when supported by documents like joint accounts, photos, or communication records.

The Court upheld a temporary injunction in a property dispute, protecting the widow's rights, and stated the validity of the marriage must be determined through a full trial. (Mohamed Umar Seeni Ariff Khan & Anr V Mrs Tanzia Bano)