GUWAHATI: The Assam Cabinet has approved the introduction of the 'Assam Compulsory Registration of Muslim Marriages and Divorces Bill, 2024, on Wednesday, August 21.
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The bill is set to be tabled in the upcoming session of the Assam Legislative Assembly. "Earlier, Muslim marriages were registered by the Kazis. However, this new bill will ensure that all marriages of the community will be registered with the government," Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma said.
The proposed legislation seeks to ensure that all Muslim marriages and divorces in the state are officially registered with government authorities. By establishing the government as the registering authority, the bill aims to provide a legal framework that will offer protection, especially to women, and prevent the practice of child marriage.
The key objectives of the bill include:
-The bill is designed to combat the ongoing issue of child marriages by mandating the registration of all marriages. This will help in monitoring and preventing illegal marriages involving minors.
-The bill makes it mandatory for all Muslim couples to register their marriages and divorces. While couples may solemnise their marriages according to their religious rituals and customs, legal recognition will require formal registration as per the new provisions.
-The bill aligns with the Civil Code of Procedure regarding summons, notices, and other legal processes. This ensures a standardised approach to verifying the authenticity and legality of marriage and divorce claims.
-By mandating registration, the bill aims to protect the rights of the common people and offer legal recognition to their marriages and divorces, shielding them from potential exploitation and other social evils.
