Source: ET
The petitioner submitted that before soliciting her hand in marriage Alfred Masih had introduced himself as a Muslim. PHOTO: REUTERS
LAHORE: The Walton Cantonment Board and the Lahore Cantonment Board do not register marriages of Christians and Ahmadis, stating that they only register marriages solemnised under Muslim Family Laws Ordinance 1961.
Christians and Ahmadi communities have made arrangements on their own for registration.
They register births and deaths, but flatly refuse when it comes to marriages. They say that they only register marriages which fall under the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance 1961,” he said. He said that there was no provision in the ordinance to bar cantonment administrations from registering marriages of minority communities.
1. Funny situation: Birth and Death of minorities OK but no marriage. Might be Ordinance interpretation problem. Since when is this practice?
2. The easiest way to amend the title as “Family Laws Ordinance” and required additions/deletions can be incorporated. Possible if there is will to do.
3. Various European countries used to recognize marriage certificates issued by Ahmadiyya Community. Latest situation am not aware.
4. Unless absolute justice and fairness,irrespective of religion, ethnicity, color and breed ensured for all citizens, country will not enjoy good global reputation.
5. Hope authorities can pay attention to this serious social and societal issue.
Note: Height of discrimination. MT readers may register protest by commenting on the news in ET.