Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday applauded the passage of triple talaq bill by Parliament, saying the step was necessary for women irrespective of religion to be treated with dignity and respect.
In a big victory, the Modi government at the Centre secured Rajya Sabha's clearance for the landmark bill helped by support from the BJD, walkout by BJP allies JD-U and AIADMK and some abstentions to get Parliament's approval for the contentious legislation.
The bill was passed by the Lok Sabha last week.
"The passage of this bill in both Houses (of Parliament) was necessary for women of any religion or caste to be treated with dignity and respect. I congratulate Prime Minister Narendra Modi for taking this step," a statement quoted Adityanath as saying.
"This bill was necessary as it will eliminate the discrimination between men and women," he said.
The chief minister said many Islamic countries have long stopped the ill-practice of triple talaq, adding despite being the world's largest democracy, the practise continued in India.
Hitting out at those parties which opposed the bill, Adityanath said, "It is unfortunate that those who were talking about women empowerment have opposed this bill in both Houses. Congress and its allies--SP and BSP-- have been exposed."
Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Dinesh Sharma also hailed the bill.
"This is a big step towards women empowerment, and it goes on to prove that there is no difference in the words (kathni) and deeds (karni). From today onwards, Muslim women will not have to face any injustice. This law will free them from harassment and give them the right to lead their lives with respect and dignity," he said in a statement.
Sharma said those opposing the bill were opposing right to equality.
Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya said in a tweet, "Muslim women used to get terrified on hearing the word 'Talaq', today their faces are filled with joy."
The passage of the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill that makes instant triple talaq among Muslims a criminal offence with 99 votes in favour and 84 against was a major legislative success for the BJP-led NDA in the opposition-dominated Upper House where it lacks majority.
Once, the bill gets presidential assent, the practice of Muslim men instantly divorcing their wives by uttering 'talaq' thrice will become a criminal offence, punishable by a jail term of up to three years.
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