DNA Edit: AIMPLB applies caution in triple talaq case

Even though many Muslim women have hailed the Supreme Court verdict on triple talaq, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) doesn’t appear too happy with the judgement. It had accused the government of encroaching upon personal laws, and at a meeting in Bhopal on Sunday reiterated its critical stand against the Centre.

However, by deciding not to file a review petition against the Supreme Court judgement, it has stayed away from the confrontational path. Over the years, its steadfast refusal to usher in reforms reveals its obduracy. A unilateral divorce that leaves women helpless should not have religious sanction since it goes against the grain of humanity. Of the three forms of talaq — Talaq-e-Ahsan, Talaq-e-Hasan, and Talaq-e-Biddat, the third is the most regressive, but all three are muscled by male chauvinism. Add to this the ignominy of polygamy, and it becomes clear why Muslim women live in such a pitiable state and completely at the mercy of men.

If the board truly believes in the equality of sexes, it should support women’s education that is geared towards earning a livelihood. Financial independence is a cornerstone of women’s rights. The board, given its tremendous clout within the community, can do a lot if it chooses to focus on liberating women from the shackles of patriarchy. The world has moved far ahead, and clinging on to quaint and archaic practices will only block the community’s progress. One hopes that AIMPLB embraces the path of reforms.