The certificate mentioned in section 17 shall not be issued until one of the persons intending marriage has appeared personally before the Minister and made a solemn declaration—
         (a) that he or she believes that there is not any impediment of kindred or affinity, or other lawful hindrance, to the said marriage,
         and when either or both of the parties is or are a minor or minors,
         (b) that the consent or consents required by law has or have been obtained thereto, or that there is no person resident in India having authority to give such consent, as the case may be.