Adoption of Child Recognised Under Juvenile Justice Act, Overriding Muslim Personal Law : Madras High Court

The Madras High Court has ruled that the Juvenile Justice Act prevails over Muslim personal law, granting adopted children equal legal status.

Justice G.R. Swaminathan passed the order while hearing a plea by a Muslim man whose adoption deed dated September 13, 2025, was refused registration. The petitioner and his wife, who were childless, had adopted their nephew after the brother’s death.

The Court observed that the JJ Act allows adoption irrespective of religion, stressing that a child’s welfare and consent are paramount. The Court directed the registrar to verify and decide the matter within three weeks.

[K Heerajohn v The District Registrar & Anr]