COMPARATIVE LEGAL ANALYSIS OF THE HINDU SUCCESSION ACT, 1956 & THE MUSLIM PERSONAL LAW (SHARIAT) APPLICATION ACT, 1937 IN INHERITANCE RIGHTS

Mr. Ashish Shahi; Prof. (Dr.) Surendra Pratap Singh

doi:10.59828/ijhce.v2i1.29

Authors

Mr. Ashish Shahi Research Scholar, A.P.N. PG College Basti, Siddharth University, Siddharth Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, India Author
Prof. (Dr.) Surendra Pratap Singh Dean and Head, Department of Law, A.P.N. PG College, Basti, Siddharth University, Siddharth Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, India Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59828/ijhce.v2i1.29

Abstract

This study compares the Hindu Succession Act, 1956 and the Muslim Personal Law (Shariat) Application Act, 1937, analyzing their frameworks for inheritance rights in India. Governing Hindus and Muslims respectively, these laws reflect distinct legal and cultural approaches within India’s pluralistic system. The research examines their historical context, provisions and impact on gender equality and social justice. Using a doctrinal and socio-legal approach, it analyzes statutory texts, judicial interpretations and case law to highlight differences in heir treatment, property devolution and gender equity. The Hindu Succession Act, amended in 2005, grants women coparcenary rights, while Shariat-based inheritance prioritizes male heirs, limiting reform. Findings show the Hindu law’s progress toward gender equity faces implementation challenges, while Muslim law’s stability raises constitutional concerns. The study advocates for reforms balancing religious autonomy with equitable inheritance, contributing to legal scholarship on pluralism and proposing policy solutions for gender justice in modern India.

Keywords: Hindu Succession Act 1956, Muslim Personal Law (Shariat) Application Act 1937, inheritance rights, gender equality, legal pluralism.