Guwahati: The Assam assembly is set to discuss a bill that was recently introduced in the House to make registration of Muslim marriages and divorces mandatory. The move, however, has faced opposition from the Opposition who argues that a 1935 law governing these matters is still in force and must be repealed first for the new legislation to be implemented. Assam’s Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, has urged Muslim lawmakers to support the bill as well as future legislation on banning child marriages. He emphasized the need for reconciliation and collaboration between Hindus and Muslims rather than suppressing each other’s voices.
The proposed bill aims to have government-appointed officials handle registration of Muslim marriages and divorces in order to prevent child marriages. With the ruling BJP-led coalition having the necessary numbers, the bill is expected to pass easily. It will replace the 1935 law which allows registration through government-authorised Qazis but is not mandatory. The previous law also permitted the registration of marriages and divorces of minors upon their guardians’ application.
In August, a bill was tabled to abolish the 1935 law and pave the way for the new legislation. This move highlights Assam’s efforts towards ensuring the protection and well-being of its citizens, particularly vulnerable groups such as minors.
