ISSUE:
Whether the performance of the essential ceremonies and rites have to be established by evidence specifically before a person can be convicted under Section 494 IPC?
RULE:
According to Section 7 of The Hindu Marriage Act,
(1) a Hindu marriage may be solemnized in accordance with the customary rites and ceremonies of either party thereto.
(2) Where such rites and ceremonies include the saptpadi (that is, the taking of seven steps by the bridegroom and the bride jointly before the sacred fire), the marriage becomes complete and binding when the seventh step is taken.