Family Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2022 seeks to grant statutory cover to family courts in which states? I. Himachal Pradesh II. Assam III. Nagaland

The correct answer is I and III . Key Points The Family Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2022 was introduced to grant statutory status to family courts established in certain states without appropriate legal backing. The Bill provides statutory cover to family courts in Himachal Pradesh and Nagaland , which were established without such legal framework initially. In Himachal Pradesh , two family courts were established in Shimla and Dharamshala in 2019, but they lacked formal statutory recognition. Hence, statement I is correct. In Nagaland , a family court was established in 2008, but similar statutory issues were identified. Hence, statement III is correct. However, Assam is not included in this amendment bill for statutory coverage of family courts. Hence, statement II is incorrect. The Bill intends to address legal and procedural gaps and ensure that family courts in these states function without legal hindrances. Additional Information Family Courts Act, 1984: The Family Courts Act, 1984 , was enacted to establish family courts for settling family disputes efficiently and amicably. These courts deal with cases related to marriage, divorce, child custody, property disputes, and maintenance . The Act empowers state governments to establish family courts in consultation with the High Court . Objective of Family Courts: The primary goal is to provide a congenial atmosphere for family dispute resolution. Family courts emphasize conciliation and non-adversarial resolution of disputes. They aim to reduce the burden on regular courts and ensure speedy justice in family matters. Himachal Pradesh and Nagaland: In Himachal Pradesh , family courts were functioning in key cities like Shimla and Dharamshala without proper statutory backing. In Nagaland , the family court established in Kohima in 2008 faced similar statutory gaps. The Family Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2022 , retrospectively validates the functioning of these courts. Key Features of the Amendment: The Amendment Bill provides retrospective effect to family courts in Himachal Pradesh and Nagaland, ensuring their legal validity from the date of establishment. It ensures that decisions and orders passed by these courts remain valid and enforceable. The Bill addresses procedural irregularities and provides a strong legal foundation for family court operations. Important Points Family Courts in India: Family courts were introduced to provide specialized judicial mechanisms for family and matrimonial disputes. They are guided by principles of conciliation and speedy resolution instead of adversarial litigation. The establishment and functioning of family courts are governed by the Family Courts Act, 1984 . Recent Developments: The Family Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2022 , was introduced and passed to resolve procedural and legal gaps in specific states. This ensures that family courts in Himachal Pradesh and Nagaland operate smoothly and without legal challenges. Significance: The Amendment Bill highlights the importance of legal frameworks for institutions like family courts. It ensures that justice delivery in family matters is not hindered due to procedural loopholes. It reinforces the commitment of the Indian judiciary to efficient and accessible justice .