London Mayor Sadiq Khan comments on triple talaq

MUMBAI: London Mayor Sadiq Khan on Sunday said it was important to protect women rights, while condemning the practice of triple talaq.

Speaking to ANI in Mumbai, referring to the practice of triple talaq, Khan said, “It is important to protect women rights. In UK, there are examples where the rights of Muslim women have been protected.”

The Government of India is likely to introduce a bill in the winter session of the Parliament to end triple talaq.

The Supreme Court, in August, had passed the order terming the system of instant talaq (divorce) as “unconstitutional.” A suitable law, if put in place, will make the practice an offence under the penal provisions of the country. Once the law is passed, the victims will have the option of approaching the police and legal system for the redressal of their grievances and for the action to be taken against the husband.

Despite the apex court’s order in August, there have been sporadic incidents of husbands divorcing their partners through phone or messages or by uttering the word ‘talaq’ thrice.

Sadiq Khan, who arrived on Sunday in the country’s commercial capital as a part of his visit to India to boost economic and cultural ties further, said, “The key message I am bringing to India is that London is open for talent, business and partnerships.”

He mentioned that greatness of London was because people from India and Pakistan have contributed to the country.

The London Mayor also said the people of London, especially the Gujaratis, were very proud of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as they saw him as someone from a humble background who worked his way to become the prime minister.