Government to Parliament: Muslims not consulted on triple talaq bill
What's the story
The government informed Parliament that Muslim organizations were not consulted for the draft bill that criminalized instant triple talaq. Further, the government declared that a law is required because despite the SC striking it down, instant triple talaq continued. Law minister Ravi Shankar Prasad elaborated that the proposed bill would "ensure gender justice, gender equality and dignity of women." Here's more!
About
What is triple talaq?
Triple talaq is a means of dissolution of marriage in Muslim society. Under this practice, a marriage is deemed dissolved once the husband says "talaq" thrice. Banned in 22 countries, including some Muslim-dominated countries, the practice has been widely criticized for discrimination against women. In a landmark judgment, a five-judge bench of the SC banned triple talaq, terming it unconstitutional, in August'17.
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What has necessitated this bill?
Prasad claimed that despite the SC striking down the practice, about 66 cases of husbands divorcing their spouses with instant triple talaq were reported. Thus, the cabinet cleared the Muslim Women Protection of Rights on Marriage Bill, which makes this divorce method "illegal and void."
Provisions
What are the provisions enumerated in this bill?
The triple talaq bill provides for a jail term for the husband. Further, he could also be fined. Instant triple talaq in writing or through email, SMS and WhatsApp will also be considered illegal. The victim can approach the court, seeking "subsistence allowance" and custody of her minor children. The magistrate, however, would be the final authority on these issues.
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Earlier, Modi said triple talaq shouldn't be linked to religion
Meanwhile, earlier, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi had alleged that the draft bill was an attempt to demonize Muslims. Subsequently, PM Modi had appealed that triple talaq is an issue of women's rights and should not be linked with religion.