Step 1: Understanding the Special Marriage Act.
The Special Marriage Act, 1954, allows individuals to marry regardless of their religion or caste, provided they fulfill the conditions laid down in the Act. A marriage between a girl of 22 and a boy of 23 years is valid under the Special Marriage Act, as both meet the minimum age requirement for marriage.
Step 2: Explanation of the options.
- (a) Valid: This is the correct answer, as the marriage meets the criteria of the Special Marriage Act.
- (b) Voidable: This is incorrect, as the marriage is not voidable under the Special Marriage Act.
- (c) Void: The marriage is not void as it satisfies the legal requirements.
- (d) Valid only in north India: This is incorrect, as the Special Marriage Act is applicable throughout India.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Thus, the correct answer is (a) Valid.