Section 15 of the Hindu Succession Act, 1956 gives priority to the heirs of the husband over the parents of the deceased; If a Hindu woman dies without making a will. Since the husband is alive at the time of her death, he takes all her property without leaving any share for her own mother or father.
A 3-Judge bench of Supreme Court has directed the Centre to file its response within three-weeks and adjourned the matter constitutional validity of sections 15 and 16 of the Hindu Succession Act, 1956 for hearing on a later date.
A 3-Judge Supreme Court bench will be hearing the matter challenging the constitutional validity of sections 15 and 16 of the Hindu Succession Act, 1956 for final disposal.