Presumption Of Death Act Delayed

A new Presumption of Death Act has been delayed by six months. The act would enable relatives of people missing for at least seven years to apply for a certificate declaring them presumed dead. This would allow the relatives to handle their affairs. Work on the rules of court, regulations and linked procedures necessary to bring the act into force fully has not been finished, said Justice Minister Shailesh Vara. It was to have been completed in time for next April but now the proposed commencement of the act will be delayed until October 1, the next available common commencement date, he added.

Another announcement confirming the new date for the introduction will be made prior to the summer recess on July 22. The act was passed following a campaign by the Missing People charity to help relatives handle the affairs of family members absent, such as selling property, dissolving a marriage, and sorting out bank accounts.

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