In what can be called as a major success for the Modi Government, Parliament on Tuesday approved the bill that makes instant triple talaq among Muslim community a criminal offence. The contentious legislation (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill came to Rajya Sabha after it was passed in Lok Sabha last week. Rajya Sabha approved the bill after it received 99 votes in favour and 84 against it. The bill now awaits assent of the President. Following which the bill will replace an ordinance promulgated last on February 21.

As per the legislation, the practice of instant divorce by Muslim men will be punishable by a jail term of up to three years. The contentious legislation allows Muslim women to take legal recourse should their husband ditch them through triple talaq.