Debate Over Supreme Court’s Decision on Divorced Women’s Maintenance

Views from Chaudhary Ifraheem Husain, Sadaf Fatima, and Kamal Faruqui

In Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has decided to challenge the Supreme Court’s recent verdict allowing divorced women to claim maintenance after the period of ‘Iddat’. This decision has sparked different opinions within the Muslim community.

Chaudhary Ifraheem Husain’s Perspective

Cleric Chaudhary Ifraheem Husain believes that the decision to review the Supreme Court’s order should not be rushed. He stated, “The way the All India Muslim Personal Law Board wants to review the decision of the Supreme Court I think it should not be hurried. This is because this is linked to Sharia, women, and humanity.” He pointed out the contradictions in the AIMPLB’s stance on Sharia law.

Sadaf Fatima’s View

Sadaf Fatima supports the Supreme Court’s judgment, arguing that it aligns with Sharia law, which treats men and women equally. She claimed, “The Muslim Personal Law Board wants all laws to be for men and women should be subjugated. I think the Supreme Court’s decision is right.”

Kamal Faruqui’s Opinion

AIMPLB member Kamal Faruqui emphasized the responsibilities of husbands in a marriage according to Islamic law. He said, “Husbands have the responsibility to take care of their wives in every way… They have a religious responsibility to take care of her in all aspects till the time she is your wife.” He also mentioned that once a divorce (talaq) is finalized, the contractual obligations end, and any violations should be met with criminal charges.

AIMPLB’s Stance

The AIMPLB has adopted a resolution stating that the Supreme Court’s judgment on the maintenance of Muslim divorcee women is against Islamic law (Shariah). The board has authorized its president to take all possible measures to ensure that this decision is rolled back.