Assam Government Repeals 1935 Marriage Act
CM Sarma and AIUDF’s Rafiqul Islam Respond
The Assam government, led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, has decided to repeal the Assam Muslim Marriages and Divorce Registration Act of 1935. The decision aims to prevent child marriage and ensure parity in marriage and divorce registration.
AIUDF General Secretary Rafiqul Islam criticized the move, questioning its necessity and accusing the government of creating trouble for people. He stated, “This act has been going on from 1935… It had no clashes with the Constitution of Assam and had no issues whatsoever. What was the need to suddenly repeal it?”
Chief Minister Sarma defended the decision, citing concerns about changing demographics and the need for justice for daughters and sisters. He mentioned that the Muslim population in Assam has increased from 12 percent in 1951 to 40 percent now, and alleged that illegal immigrants are marrying tribal girls without following due process.
The Assam Repealing Bill 2024, which aims to repeal the 1935 Act, will be placed before the next monsoon session of the Assam Legislative Assembly for consideration. The State Cabinet has also directed that a suitable legislation be brought for the registration of Muslim marriages in Assam.
Doubts Revealed
Repeals -: Repeals means to officially cancel or end a law. In this case, the Assam government is ending an old law about marriage and divorce.
1935 Marriage Act -: The 1935 Marriage Act is a very old law that was made in 1935 to register marriages and divorces for Muslims in Assam.
CM Sarma -: CM Sarma stands for Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. He is the leader of the Assam government.
AIUDF -: AIUDF stands for All India United Democratic Front. It is a political party in Assam.
Rafiqul Islam -: Rafiqul Islam is a leader from the AIUDF party. He is the General Secretary, which means he has an important role in the party.
Child marriage -: Child marriage is when children, usually girls, are married before they are 18 years old. It is illegal and harmful.
Parity -: Parity means equality or fairness. In this context, it means making sure marriage and divorce rules are the same for everyone.
Demographics -: Demographics are statistics about the population, like how many people live in an area, their ages, and other details.