New Delhi: The National Commission for Women (NCW) has submitted a report to key Central ministries recommending wide-ranging reforms in Muslim Personal Law, including comprehensive codification of laws governing marriage, divorce, maintenance, custody, and inheritance. The move has sparked debate within sections of the Muslim community, where concerns remain over state-led intervention in personal laws.
The report, titled “Rights of Muslim Women in India,” was submitted to the Ministries of Home Affairs, Women and Child Development, and Minority Affairs. It proposes a single legislative framework aimed at strengthening legal protections for Muslim women and addressing gaps in implementation.
Among its major recommendations are mandatory registration of marriages, prohibition of child marriage, regulation of divorce procedures, stronger maintenance rights during and after marriage, protection of Mehr, and improved enforcement of inheritance and property rights. The report also calls for gender-sensitive dispute resolution bodies with adequate representation of women, legal aid services, helplines, awareness campaigns, and support systems for affected women.
The recommendations emerged from a national consultation process, including a round table meeting held in New Delhi in August 2025. Participants included government representatives, legal experts, academics, women’s rights groups, religious scholars, social activists, and members of civil society.
The NCW argued that the absence of a consolidated legal framework has led to varying interpretations and practices across regions and communities. According to the Commission, codification would clarify procedures and align them with constitutional principles of equality, non-discrimination, and personal liberty.
Muslim institutions, including the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, have traditionally opposed state-led codification of Muslim Personal Law. They maintain that personal laws derive from religious principles and remain protected under constitutional guarantees of religious freedom.
The Commission has urged the government and stakeholders to act on its recommendations to improve access to justice and socio-economic empowerment for Muslim women.
Story by India Tomorrow
