By Faisal Fareed, TwoCircles.net,
Lucknow: In a significant development Shia Central Board of Waqfs (SCBW) has sought permission from Uttar Pradesh government for registration of Muslim marriages. A proposal in this regard has been sent by Chairman, SCBW, Syed Waseem Rizvi to the state government for necessary clearance.
“Such a provision exists in Andhra Pradesh where the waqf board is entitled to register Muslim nikahnamas (marriage certificates). We are also demanding similar facility to be extended in UP,” said Rizvi.
The issue for registration of Muslim marriages has gained momentum following an apex court directive for compulsory registration of all marriages irrespective of relgion. “If we abide by that and follow the prevalent marriage registration act it is against tenets of Islamic Law. A provision for registration of nikahnamas with the waqf board will be in accordance with Islamic Shariah,” Rizvi argues.
As per the proposal, after registration of Muslim nikahnamas the Shia waqf board will issue a certificate which will hold legal value. It can be produced at the time of abroad journey also where marriage registration certificate is required. It can also be used for all other legal purposes.
A letter in this regard has been sent to the Principal Secretary, Minority Welfare and Muslim Waqfs by the SCBW for devising a process of registration of Muslim marriages with the waqf boards after making due amendment in the existing rules. “We have taken the initiative after receiving communications, requests and recommendations from Muslim clerics, representatives and general public. Such a system is already in place in the state of Andhra Pradesh and Tamilnadu,’ said Rizvi.
The demand also got a fillip after apex court also favoured compulsory registration of marriages. These marriages are to be done as per prevalent Special Marriage Act 1956 which Muslims treat contradictory to their Islamic Shariah. “We therefore suggested that it is done with the waqf board as per the religious sentiments,” said Rizvi on Sunday.
The registration will also facilitate Muslim community in addressing the issue of ‘certificate of marriage’ while they go to abroad for better career prospects which requires some legal proof of marriage.