"According to the Hindu Marriage Act, if the couple are Hindus at the time of marriage, only then is the marriage valid under the Act," noted lawyer Mrunalini Deshmukh said.

"Even though Sanjay and Manyata have filed a joint declaration with South Goa's registration authorities seeking withdrawal of their marriage declaration, they will be husband and wife if their marriage as per the Hindu Marriage Act is valid," Deskhmukh said.

But if Manyata has not converted before the marriage rites, then either party can challenge the marriage at the time of annulment, as it is an invalid marriage.

The joint declaration filed by the couple before South Goa's Salcette Sub registrar's office states that they do not desire to solemnise their marriage under the Portuguese Civil Code, 1867.