Published Paper Details:

Inheritance laws in India are deeply rooted in the country's diverse religious traditions, leading to a complex legal landscape. This Paper examines the principles of inheritance under Hindu and Muslim laws, highlighting their distinct characteristics, legal frameworks, and contemporary challenges. Inheritance laws in India, influenced by religious traditions, create a diverse and complex legal framework particularly for Hindus and Muslims. Hindu inheritance is primarily governed by the Hindu Succession Act, 1956, which applies to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs. In contrast, Muslim inheritance laws are derived from the Quran, Hadith, and codified under the Muslim Personal Law. These laws emphasize fixed shares for primary heirs such as spouses, children, and parents, ensuring detailed and equitable distribution. Unlike Hindu law, Muslim law does not recognize representation, and the property is distributed strictly according to prescribed shares, preventing wealth concentration. Comparatively, Hindu law is largely statutory and has evolved with legislative amendments to promote gender equality, while Muslim law remains closely tied to religious prescriptions with a focus on fairness and wide distribution. In this paper we will discuss the key differences among these laws, highlighting the key differences, reforms and challenges. Emphasis is given how the judiciary played an active role. Understanding these religious inheritance laws is crucial for addressing legal disputes and promoting equitable distribution of property