Section 1 of SMA : Section 1: Short Title, Extent And Commencement

Explanation using Example

Imagine an Indian couple, Rahul and Aisha, who come from different religious backgrounds. Rahul is Hindu, and Aisha is Muslim, and they wish to get married without converting their religions. They decide to get married under the Special Marriage Act, 1954, which allows for such inter-religious marriages. This Act is applicable to them as it extends to the whole of India, including where they reside. They can register their marriage under this Act, regardless of their religious differences, as it provides a legal framework for the marriage of Indian citizens who wish to marry outside their respective religious customs and ceremonies.