Muslim Board To Challenge Uttarakhand’s UCC Law, SC Verdict On Divorced Women Maintenance

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board on Sunday has announced its intention to challenge the recent Supreme Court verdict allowing divorced women to claim maintenance beyond the period of “Iddat”. They also plan to contest the Uniform Civil Code law enacted in Uttarakhand.

During a working committee meeting, spokesperson Syed Qasim Rasool Ilyas revealed that eight resolutions were approved. “The first resolution addresses the Supreme Court’s recent judgement, which we believe contradicts Sharia law,” he stated. “This decision, while purportedly in the interest of women, may complicate matters within marriages. We will work with our legal committee to explore avenues to overturn this ruling.”

On July 10, the Supreme Court ruled that Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure applies universally, enabling all married women, including Muslims, to seek maintenance from their husbands post-divorce.

Regarding the Uniform Civil Code in Uttarakhand, Ilyas emphasized the board’s opposition, stating, “Our Constitution upholds diversity, which the UCC seeks to undermine. This law not only violates our constitutional rights but also impedes religious freedom.”

He also addressed religious disputes, urging the Supreme Court to exclude these from the Worship Places Act of 1991. “We seek to prevent such disputes from being entertained under this Act,” he said.

Commenting on recent mob lynching incidents, Ilyas condemned these acts and emphasized the need for law enforcement to uphold justice.

Lastly, on the Palestine-Israel conflict, Ilyas urged the Indian government to sever ties with Israel and advocate for a ceasefire, aligning with the stance supporting Palestine’s sovereignty amidst ongoing violence.

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