Assam Repeals 1935 Act to Combat Child Marriage, Ensure Parity

The Assam government, led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, has decided to repeal the Assam Muslim Marriages and Divorce Registration Act of 1935. This move aims to prevent child marriage and ensure parity in marriage and divorce registration. The decision was discussed ahead of panchayat polls and bye-elections.

The Assam government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, announced on Thursday its decision to repeal the Assam Muslim Marriages and Divorce Registration Act of 1935. The move is aimed at preventing child marriage and ensuring parity in marriage and divorce registrations, according to official sources.

In a post on social media platform X, Sarma stated, "We have taken a significant step to ensure justice for our daughters and sisters by putting additional safeguards against child marriage. During today’s #AssamCabinet meeting, we resolved to repeal the Assam Muslim Marriages and Divorce Registration Act and Rules 1935 via the Assam Repealing Bill 2024." He added that the bill would be presented in the next monsoon session of the Assam Legislative Assembly.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Sarma visited the State BJP headquarters in Guwahati to discuss various issues with the party leadership ahead of the upcoming panchayat polls and bye-elections. On Wednesday, Sarma raised concerns over the changing demographics in Assam, calling it a "life and death" issue. Citing data, he noted the Muslim population has increased from 12 per cent in 1951 to 40 per cent.

Sarma also alleged that illegal immigrants are marrying tribal girls without due legal process. He vowed that the BJP would legislate to prevent any exploitation in cases where tribal daughters marry illegal immigrants.