Triple talaaq: India considers jail for 'instant divorce'
It would explicitly ban "triple talaaq", in line with the Supreme Court ruling, and lay out legal procedures for a "subsistence allowance" and custody arrangements. Photo: Getty Images
(Web Desk) - A draft legislation proposing a 3-year sentence for husbands who practice "instant divorce" is under consideration in India.
According to the BBC, the proposed law provides for fines and support for affected women. The draft Muslim Women Protection of Rights on Marriage Bill has now been sent to regional governments for consultation.
It would explicitly ban "triple talaaq", in line with the Supreme Court ruling, and lay out legal procedures for a "subsistence allowance" and custody arrangements, the Press Trust of India said.
Under the current draft, people suspected of the offence would not be eligible for bail. It would also ban the practice in any form - including in writing, or by text message.
Indian media has reported that the said legislation is due to be considered during the parliamentary sessions, which begins in mid-December.
Muslims are India s largest minority group, and it is one of a few countries where the practice of triple talaaq has survived.
The traditional practice involves a Muslim man saying "talaaq" (divorce) three times. The practice was declared unconstitutional by India s Supreme Court in August, but officials say it has continued since.
The Supreme Court ruling came after five women petitioned the court, arguing the traditional practice violated their fundamental rights. The court ruled in their favour, and labelled it "un-Islamic".
