Adoption of Unmarried Partner's Child by Family Members

Akhilesh, a single father, is in a live-in relationship with his partner, Shreya. They have a child, but the couple never formally marries. During their time together, Akhilesh's family becomes close to Shreya and the child. However, things go awry, and the couple breaks up. Shreya leaves the child with Akhilesh's family, citing that they're more capable of taking care of the child. The question arises: can Akhilesh's family members adopt the child as legal guardians under the Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956? What would be the legal implications of such an act? Section 6 of the Act clearly states that adoption is only possible for an unmarried male or unmarried female of a sound mind. Would they fall under the exception, considering they're relatives of the biological father?