Assam Repeals Outdated Marriage Act to Combat Child Marriage
Posted by admin on 2024-02-26 |
In a significant stride towards the implementation of a
Uniform Civil Code (UCC), the Assam Cabinet, under the leadership of Chief
Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, has approved the repeal of the Assam Muslim
Marriages and Divorces Registration Act, 1935. The decision aims to combat the
pervasive issue of child marriage within the state. Chief Minister Sarma
highlighted the problematic provisions of the antiquated Act, which allowed
marriage registration even if the individuals hadn't attained the legal ages of
18 and 21 for brides and grooms respectively, as mandated by current law.
Minister
Jayanta Malla Baruah underscored the government's commitment to modernizing
laws and aligning them with contemporary societal norms. He emphasized that the
repeal of the colonial-era Act is a crucial step towards the eventual
establishment of a UCC in Assam. Minister Baruah announced the replacement of
the repealed Act with the Special Marriage Act, urging all citizens to register
marriages under this updated legislation.
Following
the repeal, district commissioners and registrars will assume responsibility
for the registration records previously managed by Muslim Marriage Registrars.
Chief Minister Sarma assured a one-time compensation of Rs two lakh for the
Muslim Marriage Registrars to aid in their rehabilitation post-repeal. The
decision to repeal the Act was taken during a late-night cabinet meeting,
recognizing its archaic nature as a remnant of British colonial rule.
Moreover,
Chief Minister Sarma reiterated the government's commitment to advancing the
UCC agenda and expressed intentions to outlaw polygamy in the state promptly.
While acknowledging that the UCC falls under Parliament's jurisdiction, the
state government can initiate action with the President's approval. He
highlighted Uttarakhand's recent implementation of the UCC, setting a precedent
for other states.
In
addressing the issue of child marriage, the Assam government has undertaken
concerted efforts, including crackdowns in February and October, resulting in
numerous arrests and cases filed. These initiatives underscore the government's
resolve to combat social ills and uphold the rights and dignity of its citizens.
