India: Assam Bill Sparks Controversy Over Muslim Marriage Registration

The government of Assam has introduced a controversial bill that would require Muslims to register their marriages and divorces, Arab News reported yesterday. While the bill aims to curb child marriage and provide legal safeguards for women, it has faced strong opposition from Muslim activists who view it as a precursor to a broader Uniform Civil Code (UCC).

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has defended the bill, stating that it will not interfere with religious practices. However, Muslim leaders argue that the UCC, which seeks to standardize personal laws across different faiths, threatens their religious freedoms. The All India Muslim Personal Law Board has vehemently opposed the UCC, asserting that it contradicts Islamic principles.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed support for the UCC, arguing that it would promote equality and eliminate discriminatory laws. The BJP-led government’s push for such reforms has heightened concerns among India’s Muslim population about their rights and future in the country.

The proposed bill, which will be presented in the upcoming state assembly session, has sparked heated debates and protests. While the government argues that the bill is necessary to protect women’s rights, Muslim activists fear it could be a step towards further marginalization of the Muslim community.