Property Rights of Illegitimate Children Under Hindu Law: A Judicial Discourse

Abstract

This study looks at how Indian courts have been interpreting illegitimate children's property rights under Hindu law. Due to progressive court rulings, the legal standing of these historically disenfranchised children has significantly changed. Key Supreme Court and High Court rulings that have broadened the interpretation of statutory provisions to protect the rights of illegitimate children—particularly under the Hindu Succession Act and Hindu Marriage Act—are critically analyzed in this article. The study emphasizes the judiciary's function in guaranteeing social justice, equality, and the defense of children's rights regardless of their place of birth.