The Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act, 1956 (HAMA) was enacted as part of India’s post-independence efforts to codify and reform Hindu personal laws. Before 1956, adoptions and maintenance were governed by diverse customary laws and scriptural texts, leading to inconsistencies. This Act standardized adoption procedures and maintenance obligations for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs, ensuring gender equality and protecting the rights of women and children. It introduced key reforms, such as allowing women to adopt (Section 8) and recognizing equal rights for daughters in maintenance claims (Section 20). The Act also defines valid adoptions (Sections 5–17) and mandates financial support for dependents (Sections 18–28). Below is the bare act text for reference:
An Act to amend and codify the law relating to adoptions and maintenance among Hindus.
Key Provisions:
Adoptions (Sections 5–17)
Conditions for a valid adoption (Section 6).
Capacity of males/females to adopt (Sections 7–8).
Effects of adoption (Section 12) – Child severs ties with biological family.
Maintenance (Sections 18–28)
Obligation to maintain wife, children, and aged parents (Section 20).
Quantum of maintenance based on income and dependents’ needs (Section 23).