Inter-caste marriage in Nepal is legal, constitutionally protected, and actively supported by law even though social resistance still exists in some communities.

Nepal’s legal system has moved far ahead of traditional caste-based restrictions. Today, any discrimination, obstruction, violence, or social boycott related to inter-caste marriage is a criminal offence.

This article explains clearly and practically what the law says, what protection exists, and what couples need to know before or after an inter-caste marriage.

Is Inter-Caste Marriage Legal in Nepal?

Yes. 100% legal. No exceptions.

Nepal does not recognize caste as a legal barrier to marriage. Any two adults who:

• Have legal age

• Give free consent
  can marry regardless of caste, ethnicity, religion, or community.

Constitutional Protection for Inter-Caste Marriage

The Constitution of Nepal guarantees:

• Equality before law
• Freedom from caste-based discrimination
• Right to dignity
• Right to marriage by free consent

Any attempt to block or punish inter-caste marriage violates constitutional rights.

Key Laws Governing Inter-Caste Marriage in Nepal

Muluki Civil Code, 2074 (Marriage Law)

The Civil Code:

• Recognizes marriage based on consent, not caste

• Makes caste-based objections legally irrelevant

• Protects both husband and wife equally

Marriage validity does not depend on family or community approval.

Caste-Based Discrimination and Untouchability (Offence and Punishment) Act, 2068

This is the strongest protection law for inter-caste couples.

Under this Act:

• Any caste-based discrimination is a criminal offence

• Social boycott, threats, abuse, or violence are punishable

• Obstruction of inter-caste marriage is illegal

This law applies before and after marriage.

Inter-Caste Marriage Law & Protection in Nepal

The law does not stop at “allowing” inter-caste marriage it actively protects couples.

Legal protections include:

1. Police protection if threatened
2. Criminal action against offenders
3. Right to live separately from family
4. Protection from forced separation
5. Legal remedies through courts

Threats, harassment, or violence against inter-caste couples can lead to immediate arrest.

Government Incentives for Inter-Caste Marriage in Nepal

Nepal actively promotes inter-caste marriage to reduce caste discrimination.

Government provides:

1. Cash incentive for inter-caste marriage (especially Dalit–non-Dalit marriages)
2. Financial support through local government offices
3. Official recognition and documentation

Conditions apply (registration, citizenship, marriage certificate, time limits).

What Counts as Illegal Acts Against Inter-Caste Marriage?

The following actions are criminal offences:

1. Threatening couples
2. Forcing separation
3. Social boycott
4. Physical violence
5. Verbal abuse
6. Family pressure using caste
7. Denial of housing or services

Punishment includes:

1. Imprisonment

2. Fine

3. Both

Can Parents or Community Stop Inter-Caste Marriage?

No. Absolutely not, Parents and community members:

• Have no legal authority to stop marriage

• Cannot file a valid case just because of caste

• Can face criminal charges if they interfere

“Family honor” has zero legal value in court.

Marriage Registration for Inter-Caste Couples

Inter-caste marriage follows the same registration process as any marriage in Nepal.

Requirements:

• Citizenship certificates

• Marriage application

• Consent of both parties

• District Office or court registration

No caste certificate is required or allowed.

Protection if Family Threatens Inter-Caste Couple

Couples can:

1. File police complaint
2. Seek court protection
3. Request temporary shelter
4. Initiate criminal action

Police are legally obligated to act refusal itself can be challenged.

Inter-Caste Marriage and Property Rights

After marriage:

• Husband and wife have equal marital rights

• Wife gains spousal inheritance rights

• Caste does not affect property or inheritance

Marriage automatically triggers legal family rights.

Inter-Caste Marriage and Divorce

Divorce law is identical for inter-caste and same-caste marriages.

Caste plays no role in:

• Divorce grounds

• Property division

• Alimony

• Child custody

Courts do not recognize caste arguments.

Common Myths About Inter-Caste Marriage in Nepal

1. Parents must approve
2. Marriage is illegal without caste match
3. Couples lose legal protection
4. Police won’t help
5. Community rules override law

Why Inter-Caste Marriage Is Legally Important in Nepal

The legal system views inter-caste marriage as:

• A constitutional right
• A tool to eliminate discrimination
• A social justice mechanism
• A protected civil liberty

That’s why punishment for caste-based obstruction is strict.

Conclusion

Inter-caste marriage in Nepal is not controversial in law it is fully legal, protected, and encouraged. The gap that remains is social acceptance, not legal recognition.

If two adults consent, no family, community, or tradition can override the law. Nepal’s legal framework clearly stands with equality, dignity, and freedom of choice.

FAQs

1. Is inter-caste marriage legal in Nepal?

Yes. Inter-caste marriage is fully legal and constitutionally protected.

2. Can parents stop inter-caste marriage in Nepal?

No. Parents have no legal authority to stop a consenting adult marriage.

3. Is there government support for inter-caste marriage?

Yes. The government provides financial incentives, especially for Dalit-non-Dalit marriages.

4. What law protects inter-caste couples in Nepal?

The Caste-Based Discrimination and Untouchability Act, 2068.

5. Can police protect inter-caste couples?

Yes. Police are legally required to provide protection if there is a threat.

6. Is caste mentioned in marriage registration?

No. Caste has no legal role in marriage registration in Nepal.