Congress should support Triple Talaq verdict, not cave in to pressure like Rajiv Gandhi on Shah Bano, says Margaret Alva

The landmark triple talaq verdict will give same rights to the women of Muslim community and bring them at par with their Hindu sisters, former Union Minister Margaret Alva said on Tuesday.

Speaking to DNA, the former Governor welcomed the decision of the Supreme Court to hold triple talaq unconstitutional.

Talking about the controversial Shah Bano verdict of 1985, she said the then Congress regime should have supported the court’s stand on the judgment.

“There was pressure from minority community within the Congress. I felt strongly that then PM Rajiv Gandhi shouldn’t have repealed the law. But it did not happen. There was tremendous pressure on him for seniors and I choose to not to further embarrass the Prime Minister,” the senior leader said .

She also said the Congress should support the legislation now as there is mood in the country for this legislation.

“I hope other political parties should not politicise it,” said Margaret Alva. Though she added that during Rajiv Gandhi’s tenure the mood within the Muslim community was different and even senior leaders within the Congress party were also on the verge of revolt.

“There is no point in crying over spilt milk. It is a welcome step to empower women against discriminatory practice,” said Margaret Alva.

She also expressed her regret that the decision was arrived by a split verdict. She felt that it should have been unanimous.