AIMPLB Prepares Legal Response to Supreme Court’s Maintenance Ruling for Muslim Divorcee Women

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 12th July. The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) is gearing up to challenge a recent Supreme Court ruling that mandates maintenance payments to Muslim divorcee women beyond the traditional period of ‘Iddat’, a member of the board confirmed today.

The Supreme Court’s decision, which requires husbands to provide financial support beyond the three-and-a-quarter month ‘Iddat’ period, has sparked intense debate within the Muslim community and among various personal law boards. AIMPLB’s stance rests on the belief that this ruling contradicts Islamic Shariat law, which traditionally stipulates that a husband’s financial responsibilities cease after ‘Iddat’.

Maulana Khalid Rashid Farangi Mahali, a prominent member of AIMPLB, expressed concerns about the implications of the Supreme Court order on gender equality and religious freedoms. He emphasized, “Our legal committee is meticulously examining the Supreme Court’s order to explore all possible legal avenues. Every citizen has the right to live according to the customs of their religion, as guaranteed by the Constitution.”

Mahali further elaborated on the principles of Muslim personal law, stressing that while marriage is intended as a lifelong commitment, provisions exist for divorce under certain circumstances. He questioned the rationale behind extending maintenance obligations post ‘Iddat’, arguing, “Once the marital bond is dissolved, why should the husband continue to bear financial responsibility?”

In response to the Supreme Court’s decision, AIMPLB is scheduled to convene a meeting on Sunday, 14th July, to deliberate further on the matter. AIMPLB spokesperson Syed Qasim Rasool Ilyas underscored the board’s intention to explore all legal and constitutional remedies, including the possibility of filing a review petition.

In contrast, the All India Shia Personal Law Board (AISPLB) has welcomed the Supreme Court’s ruling, viewing it as a progressive step towards ensuring the welfare of women. AISPLB General Secretary Maulana Yasoob Abbas praised the decision for its humanitarian considerations.

President of All India Muslim Women Personal Law Board, Shaista Amber, voiced a nuanced perspective, acknowledging the balance needed between religious doctrines and humanitarian concerns in interpreting personal laws in contemporary society.

Meanwhile, Maulana Nazar, State Vice President of Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind, called for a reconsideration of the Supreme Court’s decision in light of constitutional provisions guaranteeing religious liberty.