Uttarakhand Waqf Board's Revised Nikahnama Faces Opposition from AIMPLB
Quick Look
The Uttarakhand Waqf Board's plan to revise the Muslim marriage contract (nikahnama) to align with the Uniform Civil Code has drawn opposition from the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, which argues it overrules existing personal law and plans to challenge the UCC in court and launch a national movement.
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Why It Matters
The All India Muslim Personal Law Board has challenged the Uniform Civil Code in the Uttarakhand High Court and opposes state-level attempts to modify Muslim personal law practices.
UCC draws opposition
NEW DELHI: Uttarakhand waqf board's plan to introduce a revised marriage contract, or nikahnama, within a month "to align it with the Uniform Civil Code" has not gone down well with All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), which has challenged UCC in the high court. AIMPLB spokesperson SQR Ilyas said that the board opposes any such move by state waqf board and state govt and wants to reiterate that the nikahnama should not be revised till Uttarakhand HC gives its judgement. "Our view is clear that Muslim Personal Law (Shariat) Application Act exists and is a valid Indian law. So, how can UCC be used to overrule provisions of an existing personal law on marriage, divorce or inheritance rights? Even today, those who do not want to go by a personal law have the right to recourse under civil laws applicable to all persons. So why a UCC?" Ilyas asked. He said the board is going to challenge UCC passed in Gujarat, Assam and MP, as it has done in Uttarakhand. It will also be taking up the issue of UCC when it launches the "Movement for Protection of the Constitution and Sharia" - a national campaign that will get underway from Jantar Mantar on Sept 17.
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As reported by TOI, Uttarakhand waqf board authorities are scheduled to meet UCC panel members on Sept 9 to review and refine the draft. The revised document will remove columns for second, third and fourth marriages. Reaffirming that instant talaq is unconstitutional, the contract strictly stipulates single marriages, while the practice of 'halala' will be banned across the state. Conversion solely for marriage will no longer be permitted, requiring individuals wishing to convert to follow procedures outlined under Special Marriage Act of 1954. The mandatory waiting period known as 'iddat' will no longer be enforced, giving women the autonomy to determine the duration themselves.
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What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
The All India Muslim Personal Law Board will launch the 'Movement for Protection of the Constitution and Sharia' on September 17 at Jantar Mantar.
Very likely · Within days
The Uttarakhand Waqf Board will meet with UCC panel members on September 9 to review and refine the nikahnama draft.
Very likely · Within days
Open Questions
- What specific changes will the revised nikahnama include beyond those mentioned?
- How will the Uttarakhand High Court rule on the UCC challenge?
- What is the timeline for the 'Movement for Protection of the Constitution and Sharia' launch?