Assam: In a significant decision, the Assam cabinet has opted to repeal an 89-year-old legislation concerning the registration of marriages and divorces by Muslims in the state.
This move, aimed at curbing child marriages, was announced by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma following a cabinet meeting held at Lok Sewa Bhawan in Dispur.
The repealed act had provisions allowing marriage registration even if the bride and groom had not reached the legal ages of 18 and 21, as mandated by law.
Chief Minister Sarma highlighted this development as a crucial step towards preventing child marriages in Assam.
Upon the repeal of the legislation, District Commissioners and District Registrars will be authorized to take custody of registration records currently held by 94 Muslim Marriage Registrars.
This process will be carried out under the overall supervision, guidance, and control of the Inspector General of Registration, Assam.