Blood Relation Marriage in Nepal: What You Need to Know

Marriage between blood relatives is prohibited in Nepal under the Muluki Civil Code, 2017. Section 70 of the Code states that "no person shall marry a person who is related to him or her in the following degrees of relationship:

• (a) In the direct line ascending or descending;
• (b) In the collateral line, up to and including the first cousin."

There are a few exceptions to this rule. For example, marriage between first cousins is permitted in some ethnic groups in Nepal, such as the Gurung and Tamang. However, even in these cases, the marriage must be approved by the local community.

Marriage between blood relatives is prohibited because it can lead to genetic disorders in the offspring. The risk of genetic disorders increases as the degree of relatedness between the couple increases. For example, the risk of genetic disorders in the offspring of first cousins is about 2%, while the risk of genetic disorders in the offspring of siblings is about 50%.

The prohibition on blood relation marriage is also based on the principle of social morality. In Nepal, marriage is seen as a sacred union between two people, and it is believed that marriage between blood relatives is incestuous and therefore morally wrong.

If a person marries a blood relative in Nepal, they can be prosecuted under the Code. The punishment for marrying a blood relative is imprisonment for up to 5 years.

In addition to the legal penalties, people who marry blood relatives may also face social ostracism. In Nepal, marriage is seen as a way to unite two families, and marriage between blood relatives can be seen as a betrayal of the family.

As a result of the legal and social penalties, blood relation marriage is very rare in Nepal. However, there are still some cases of blood relation marriage that occur, particularly in rural areas. These cases are often kept secret, as the couples involved are afraid of the social consequences.

If you are considering marrying a blood relative in Nepal, I urge you to reconsider. The risks of genetic disorders and social ostracism are simply too great. There are many other people out there who are not related to you by blood, and you are sure to find someone who is right for you.