The Muthalak system was banned by the Supreme Court in August 2016. Following this, the Central Government enacted the ‘Protection of Marriage Rights Act 2017’. Although the rules are strict, the arrests of those caught in the complaint under the Act are very low.
The Muthalak process continues to be practiced among Muslims even after the law was introduced. In Uttar Pradesh, more than 7,000 women are said to be affected. Last year September 25 Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath held on talks about Muthalak.
Following this, a monthly amount of Rs.500 is being given to the women. It was also announced that this would be continued until justice is done for those victimized women. The Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Development Department is also planning to provide a monthly amount of Rs. 6,000 to women affected by Muthalak.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s government is expected to make the announcement after cabinet approval.
