The Assam government's decision to repeal the Muslim Marriage Act has ignited a heated debate, with many viewing it as a precursor to implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the state. Opposition leaders have vehemently criticized the BJP-led government's action, labeling it as an "anti-Muslim measure".
Congress MLA Abdur Rashid Mandal lambasted the Himanta Biswa Sarma administration, branding it as "thoroughly anti-Muslim" and accusing it of pandering to the Hindu populace at the expense of Muslims.
Rafiqul Islam, a leader of the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF), asserted that the state government lacked the resolve to introduce a UCC and alleged that it was unfairly targeting Muslims.
“I believe the government is incapable of enacting a UCC in Assam due to its diverse population. With elections looming, this appears to be a strategic move to marginalize Muslims. They have failed to propose any legislation on polygamy,” Islam remarked.
Contrarily, BJP leader Giriraj Singh expressed optimism about the new law, anticipating a "favorable environment" in the state.
“(The government) recently implemented the UCC in Uttarakhand. Now, the Assam government aims to govern both Hindus and Muslims under a single law. This, I believe, will foster a conducive atmosphere. It will also ensure uniformity for Hindus. Separate laws for Muslims would impede national cohesion,” Singh remarked.
Singh also extended gratitude to the government, emphasizing that "no Muslim or Hindu should face discrimination".
The move to repeal the Assam Muslim Marriages and Divorces Registration Act, of 1935, was described as an effort to combat child marriage by the Assam Cabinet. According to Himanta Biswa Sarma, this Act permitted marriage registration even if the bride and groom were underage, contravening legal age requirements. Sarma hailed the decision as a significant stride towards eradicating child marriages in Assam.
Previously, the Chief Minister had disclosed plans to introduce legislation to prohibit polygamy.
