Assam Government to Mandate Registration of Muslim Marriages and Divorces

Guwahati: The Assam government is set to introduce a pivotal bill in the upcoming state assembly session beginning August 22, aimed at mandating the government registration of marriages and divorces within the Muslim community. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the Assam Compulsory Registration of Muslim Marriages and Divorces Bill, 2024, has received cabinet approval. This legislation will transfer the responsibility of marriage registration from Kazi to the government, with a strict prohibition on registrations for individuals under 18 years of age. The Chief Minister emphasized that the primary objective of this bill is to combat child marriage in the state. By instituting a formal registration process, the government aims to enhance accountability and oversight within the community. Sarma reiterated the importance of this initiative during a press conference at Lok Sewa Bhawan in Guwahati, highlighting the government's commitment to protecting the rights of minors. In addition to the marriage registration bill, Sarma revealed plans for a new law requiring compulsory security clearance for the establishment of universities in Assam. This measure aims to ensure that institutions, including nursing, medical, and dental colleges, undergo thorough background checks before opening. The Chief Minister noted that previous regulations lacked such provisions, which he attributed to the previous Congress-led government. Sarma's announcement comes in light of concerns regarding the backgrounds of certain universities attempting to establish campuses in Assam, particularly in Barak Valley and Barpeta. The new security clearance requirement is expected to be implemented within the next few months.