Assam cabinet approves repeal of Muslim marriages, divorce registration law

The Assam cabinet on 23rd February made a decision to repeal the Assam Muslim Marriages and Divorces Registration Act.

The law allows registration of Muslim marriages and divorces with specific registrars in the state.

The government's move means that the 94 Muslim Marriage Registrars operating currently will cease to have the authority to register marriages.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that the decision is aimed at prohibiting child marriages as the Act contained provisions allowing marriage registration even if the bride and groom had not reached the age of 18 and 21.

Tourism minister Jayanta Malla Baruah said that repealing the Assam Muslim Marriages and Divorces Registration Act would be a step towards implementing a uniform civil code in the state.

A one-time compensation of Rs 2 lakh will be provided to Muslim Marriage Registrars for their rehabilitation after the Act is repealed.