What Is a Daughter's Share in Parental Property Under HSA?

Under the Hindu Succession Act (HSA) of 1956, daughters have specific rights regarding inheritance and property division. The Act ensures that daughters are treated equally to sons in matters of inheritance, especially after the amendment in 2005, which reinforced their rights to parental property.

Daughter's Share Under the Hindu Succession Act

• Equal Rights: Daughters have the same rights as sons to inherit ancestral property. This means they are entitled to an equal share in the property of their parents.
• Self-Acquired Property: If a father or mother has self-acquired property, they have the right to bequeath it according to their wishes, which can include leaving a share to their daughters.
• Marital Status: Daughters, regardless of their marital status (married or unmarried), have the right to claim their share in the property.
• Amendment of 2005: The amendment clarified that daughters are coparceners by birth, granting them rights to inherit ancestral property along with sons.
• Right to Maintenance: Daughters are entitled to claim maintenance from their parents during their lifetime, ensuring financial support regardless of property rights.

Distribution of Shares

• In Case of Intestate Succession: If a father dies intestate (without a will), his property is divided equally among all legal heirs, including daughters.
• In Case of Testate Succession: If the father leaves a will, the distribution will follow the terms of the will, but daughters cannot be denied their rightful share under the HSA.

Summary

Under the Hindu Succession Act, daughters have equal rights to inherit property, ensuring gender equality in matters of inheritance. This legal framework protects their interests and provides them with the right to claim a share in both ancestral and self-acquired properties.