Judge quizzes AP, TS, on amending Qazi Act

The Hyderabad High Court has directed TS and AP governments and the Centre to spell out their stand on marriage of poor Muslim girls with aged Arab nationals.

Justice S.V. Bhatt was dealing with a petition by Shaik Chand Basha of Prakasam district. While pointing out that the qazis are playing a key role in the marriages, the judge felt that there was need to curb their activities by enacting law.

The judge expressed displeasure for not considering a suggestion by a division bench of the High Court in 2006 for amending Section 2 of the Qazis Act, 1880.

While directing the respondents to spell out their stand on Muslim girls marriages with foreigners, the judge posted the hearing to October 30.