Scholars body to mediate in talaq

The newly-constituted Sharia Faisla Board will play the role of an arbitrator on the lines of Lok Adalats, with the aim of changing the public perception pertaining to triple talaq.

The concept of Lok Adalats — to reduce the burden on courts — has helped lakhs of people and the SFB believes that it can be replicated to resolve differences between married Muslim couples, besides providing them justice, according to SFB convener Md. Mushtaq Malik.

Mr Malik said that the SFB will, however, limit its role to an arbitration and advice.

Cases related to separation, divorce, succession, maintenance, adoption etc are pending in various courts and the SFB would not only help litigants but also the judiciary as it would reduce the burden on courts, he said.

“We are confident that the Muslim community will prefer resolving their disputes by approaching the SFB, said Mr Malik.

He said, “Some vested interests are trying hard to turn nikah and talaq into contentious issues. This is despite rate of divorce being minimal among Muslims compared to other communities.”

The SFB, which met on Wednesday, held that the triple talaq is a matter of religion and the issue is being politicised only to defame the religion.

Mufti Sadeq Mohiuddin, the board member, said, “Talaq was never an issue with Muslims. But these days it is being given a lot of mileage only for political motives. Muslims will follow only the law of Sharia and the interference of other parties is unacceptable. If the Muslim women have problems or issues with their marriages, then they can approach us directly.”

Mansoor Ahmed, a citizen, said, “This is a good initiative by religious scholars and it’s good to know that these scholars belonging to different schools of thought have come under one roof to resolve the issues amicably. We only hope that the Muslims will utilise the services offered by SFB.”

A girl, who was given talaq over WhatsApp, said, “The board will be of help to many young couples because most of the divorces are taking place in the age group of 25-35. The main reason is because of lack of understanding about the religion. If the SFB works to create awareness, the situation will improve.”