Mar 24 2008
New legislation to tackle forced marriages: Islamic Foundation
Scotland, Mar 24: As an attempt to restrict the number of forced marriages several initiatives were put forth by various organisations. The Scotland based Islamic foundation has suggested for a new legislation to tackle the issue effectively. They feel the civil powers in England are sufficient enough to take restrictive measures to help the people to get rid of forced marriages.
While commenting on this the chairman of the Islamic foundation, Osama Saeed said: “A comprehensive debate is what needed to find an effective solution. According to Islam a marriage will be valid only after both parties are agreed to it. He termed forced marriages as an injustice held responsible in many cases by people who happen to be Muslim and they originate from certain parts of the world where it does happen.”
He also pointed out that: “There seems a decrease in the number of forced marriages that is because of the change in the attitude of the people in Scotland. An effective legislation will intensify the process and bring in effective changes in the mindset of the people. Giving shape to new legislation will help to tackle the issue of forced marriage that exist in our society and it will send a positive message that this is a violation of human rights and it cannot be tolerated.”
Ms Saeed also added that an explicit debate is what needed in Scotland. The issue of criminality should be an option on the table and it is up to the victims to decide about the changes need, they can also get the help they need.
