Assam Assembly Passes Law for Compulsory Registration of Muslim Marriages and Divorces

The Assam Assembly has passed the Assam Compulsory Registration of Muslim Marriages and Divorces Bill, 2024. The bill mandates government registration of all new Muslim marriages and divorces. The aim is to prevent child marriages, ensure consent, protect women's rights, and strengthen the institution of marriage.

The Assam Assembly on Thursday passed a landmark bill requiring compulsory government registration of all Muslim marriages and divorces. The Assam Compulsory Registration of Muslim Marriages and Divorces Bill, 2024 was introduced earlier this week by Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Jogen Mohan.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma assured that previous registrations conducted by Kazis would remain valid, and only new marriages and divorces will fall under the new law. Sarma emphasized that marriages carried out according to Islamic rituals are not being interfered with, except those prohibited by Islam, which will not be registered.

Mohan highlighted that the legislation aims to prevent child marriages, ensure consent from both parties, and protect the rights of married women and widows. The bill also seeks to curb polygamy and desertion, thereby strengthening the institution of marriage within the community.

(With inputs from agencies.)