As per the provisions of the Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956, a bachelor male adopts a child. He subsequently marries a woman. Such woman shall:
- AOption (a)
be the adoptive mother of that adopted child
- BOption (b)
be the step mother of that adopted child
- COption (c)
be the adoptive mother of that child if the child accepts her as mother
- DOption (d)
be the adoptive mother of that child at her discretion
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Correct answer
be the step mother of that adopted child
Why this answer is correct
Correct Option: Option 2, "be the step mother of that adopted child"
HintAccording to the Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956, when a bachelor male adopts a child and then marries, his wife does not automatically become the adoptive mother of the child. Instead, she is considered the stepmother of the adopted child. The legal relationship between the child and the woman is that of a stepchild and stepmother, not that of an adoptive child and adoptive mother.
Overview of Incorrect Options:
Option 1: "be the adoptive mother of that adopted child" - This is incorrect because the marriage of the woman to the adoptive father does not change her legal status to that of an adoptive mother. Adoption laws specify who can be considered an adoptive parent, and simply marrying an adoptive father does not meet these criteria.
Option 3: "be the adoptive mother of that child if the child accepts her as mother" - This option is incorrect because the legal status of being an adoptive mother is not contingent upon the child's acceptance. The process of adoption and the legal status it confers are governed by specific laws and procedures, not by the personal feelings or acceptance of the child.
Option 4: "be the adoptive mother of that child at her discretion" - This is incorrect because the decision for a woman to become an adoptive mother involves legal procedures and cannot be determined solely at her discretion. Adoption is a legal process that requires adherence to specific laws and regulations, not just personal choice.
Additional Information
- The Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956, sets forth specific criteria and procedures for adoption within the Hindu community. It outlines who can adopt, who can be adopted, and the legal effects of adoption.
- It's important to understand that adoption and the assignment of parental roles within the context of this law are subject to legal definitions and procedures, rather than personal or familial agreements.