The Gauhati High Court has issued a notice to the Assam government, asking them to clarify their reasons for challenging the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act. The court has instructed the government to submit an affidavit by June 22, outlining their objections to the act.
The notice comes in response to a judgment from the Supreme Court, which had previously made it mandatory for the Assam government to register marriages under the Special Marriage and Divorce Act. Furthermore, the state government has implemented strict measures to prevent child marriages, with a mandate that no individual below the age of 18 can register for marriage.
Speaking to reporters, an advocate from the Gauhati High Court shed light on the situation, explaining, "We had requested for an interim order, but due to the model code of conduct in place during the recent elections, the court is unable to pass any orders at this time. Hence, the delay until June 22."
This development follows the Assam government's decision on February 24 to repeal the Assam Muslim Marriages and Divorces Registration Act of 1935. The primary aim behind this move was to combat the prevalent issue of child marriages among Muslims in the state.
The legal proceedings surrounding the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act have sparked debates and discussions regarding religious freedoms, legal obligations, and social welfare concerns in Assam. The Guwahati High Court's notice marks a pivotal moment in this ongoing legal battle, with stakeholders eagerly awaiting further developments as the June 22 deadline approaches.