Polygamy least among Muslims: Uzma Naheed

KOZHIKODE: All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) member Uzma Naheed has said that polygamy is least prevalent among Muslims in the country.
Speaking at a seminar on Uniform Civil Code (UCC) organised by Muslim Educational Society (MES) here on Monday, she said the “community had an answer” on polygamy and triple talaq. “Those arguing for UCC cite polygamy and triple talaq as the issues which cry for reformation. Muslims could tell the government that polygamy is the least prevalent among Muslims in India. To reform triple talaq there is ample scope within the Muslim personal law,” she said.

She criticised the central government not inviting AIMPLB for the crucial discussion on UCC. “UCC is against the diversity of our country. It’s not only Muslims but all communities will be affected by the promulgation of uniform civil code. Why the government did not consult on the vital issue with any of the communities?” she asked. Ms Naheed says Hindu community would be more affected by UCC than Muslims.

“Muslims have a universal law called Sharia. But the existing laws and customs of Hindus vary from one village to another. So bringing all under common law is impossible,” she elaborated. V.U. Ameera, a professor at MES College Ponnani, said the reformation attempt should come from within the community. “There is deliberate attempt to project Muslim women being choked in the community. Reformation is needed in triple talaq. The propaganda that Muslim women face discrimination in inheriting property rights is false,” she stated.