Hindu Minority and Guardianship Act, 1956

The Hindu Minority and Guardianship Act was enacted in 1956 as part of the Hindu Code Bills. Three other important acts were also passed during this time: the Hindu Marriage Act (1955), the Hindu Succession Act (1956), and the Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act (1956). All of these acts were introduced under the leadership of Jawaharlal Nehru, and were intended to modernize the prevailing Hindu legal tradition. The Hindu Minority and Guardianship Act of 1956 was intended to supplement, rather than replace the Guardians and Wards Act of 1890. This act specifically defines guardianship relationships between adults and minors, as well as between individuals of all ages and their respective property.