On July 18, 2024, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced a significant legislative move: the repeal of the Assam Muslim Marriages and Divorce Registration Act of 1935. This decision, part of the Assam Repealing Bill 2024, aims to address social issues such as child marriage and promote parity in marriage and divorce registration across communities in the state.
The Cabinet’s decision underscores the government’s commitment to modernizing legal frameworks and tackling social challenges. The repeal of this outdated Act is intended to replace it with a new legislation that reflects contemporary norms and ensures equitable legal protection for all citizens, particularly in matters of marriage registration.
Chief Minister Sarma emphasized the need for legislation that will specifically address the registration of Muslim marriages in Assam. The forthcoming legislation will be introduced in the Monsoon Session of the Assam Legislative Assembly, signaling the government’s proactive stance on legislative reform.
The Assam Repealing Bill 2024 will be thoroughly debated in the Assembly, with its passage crucial for formalizing these changes into law. This move marks a significant step towards enhancing women’s rights and advancing social justice in the state.
