3. Definitions.

In this Act unless the context otherwise requires-
(a) the expressions “custom” and “usage” signify any rule which, having been continuously and uniformly observed for a long time, has obtained the force of law among Hindus in any local area, tribe, community, group or family;
Provided that the rule is certain and not unreasonable or opposed to public policy; and
Provided further that, in the case of a rule applicable only to a family, it has not been discontinued by the family;

(b) “maintenance” includes-
(i) in all cases, provision for food, clothing, residence, education and medical attendance and treatment;
(ii) in the case of an unmarried daughter also the reasonable expenses of and incident to her marriage;

(c) “minor” means a person who has not completed his or her age of eighteen years.

Read Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act on a single, systematic page.

Download PDF for Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act.