Assam Government Repeals 1935 Muslim Marriages Act Amidst Controversy

The Assam cabinet has approved the repeal of the Assam Muslim Marriages and Divorces Registration Act, 1935, citing concerns about child marriage. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma explained that the Act allowed registration of marriages involving underage individuals. While the ruling BJP supports the move as a step against child marriage, opposition parties, including AIUDF and Congress, argue that it is discriminatory against Muslims and an attempt to polarize voters in an election year.

AIUDF Chief Badruddin Ajmal claims this move is a precursor to introducing the Unified Civil Code (UCC), predicting political repercussions for the BJP. Congress MLA Abdul Rashid Mandal argues that the Act is the only mechanism for Muslim marriages and divorces, protected under the Constitution. He accuses the BJP government of being anti-Muslim and favoring Hindus.