Section 8 of HSA : Section 8: General Rules Of Succession In The Case Of Males

Explanation using Example

Imagine a scenario where Mr. Sharma, a Hindu male, passes away without leaving a will. His estate must be distributed according to the Hindu Succession Act, 1956. Here's how Section 8 would apply:

1. Firstly, the estate would go to Class I heirs. Mr. Sharma is survived by his wife and two daughters, all of whom are Class I heirs. The property would be equally divided among them.
2. If Mr. Sharma had no Class I heirs, the property would then go to Class II heirs, which might include his father, siblings, or other relatives as specified in the Act.
3. If there were no Class I or Class II heirs, the property would go to the agnates, which are distant blood relatives related through male lineage, such as a cousin from his father's side.
4. Lastly, if Mr. Sharma had no agnates, the property would go to the cognates, which are relatives related through female lineage, like a cousin from his mother's side.