Muslim communities divided over triple talaq verdict

Lucknow: The Allahabad High Court's decision over triple talaq has attracted mixed reactions from various Muslim law boards in the state. The two major Muslim communities, namely Shia and Sunni were seen divided over the issue.

While the All India Muslim Personal Law Board criticised the Allahabad HC for terming the practice as unconstitutional, the Shia Personal Law Board, on the other hand applauded the HC for giving the judgement in favour of women.

AIMPLB criticises Allahabad HC for decision over triple talaq:

The executive member of All India Muslim Personal Law Board, Maulana Khalid Rashid Firangi Mahali, has criticised the Allahabad High Court for its decision regarding triple talaq on Thursday. He said that the board does not supports the decision given by the Allahabad HC.

According to Maulana Firangi Mahali, "We do not back the decision given by the High Court." The Muslim priest said that AIMPLB respects the judiciary structure of the all the nations but the democracy gives everyone the right to oppose what they do not feel acceptable.

The AIMPLB executive member said, "The legal committee of the board would do a thorough study of the case and discuss over the over the issues and loopholes. We would appeal in the higher court if considered necessary."

Also opposes unconstitutional claim of HC:

• Firangi Mahali said that the HC has decalred our decisions unconstitutional but the reality is that we did not attempt anything against the law ever.
• "We have the privilege to abide by our personal law and beliefs and doing so should not be stated as unconstitutional," he stated.
• He further said, "The AIMPLB never considered itself above the law and judicial bodies of the country."

Shia Personal Law Board supports the HC's decision:

• The All India Shia Personal Law Board has welcomed the decision by the High Court.
• Spokesperson of AISPLB Maulana Yasub Abbas said that the board welcomes the decision as it is in favour of all the Muslim women.
• "Abolishing this practice would empower the women of the country," he stated.
• He further stated, "We accept that the practice was illegal and the decision would prevent women from being exploited.".

Meanwhile, senior Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan, taking a dig at the apex court's decision, said such issues shouldn't be debated as they are connected to religious beliefs. He further asked where was the country on December 6, 1992 when the Babri mosque was demolished.