NCW Submits Comprehensive Report to Strengthen Rights of Muslim Women in India

May 28, 2026 : The National Commission for Women (NCW) has submitted a comprehensive recommendatory report on the rights of Muslim women in India to the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Women and Child Development, and Ministry of Minority Affairs following an extensive nationwide consultation process.

The report focuses on strengthening the legal, social, and constitutional rights of Muslim women and highlights the need for greater legal awareness, improved access to justice, and progressive codification of personal laws to ensure clarity and consistency in their implementation.

According to the Commission, constitutional safeguards and recent legislative reforms have played a significant role in advancing women’s rights in the country. However, it noted that there remains considerable scope for further reforms and awareness initiatives, particularly in matters related to marriage, divorce, maintenance, child custody, and inheritance.

As part of the consultation, the Commission reviewed key legislations governing the rights of Muslim women, including the Muslim Personal Law (Shariat) Application Act, 1937, the Dissolution of Muslim Marriages Act, 1939, the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Divorce) Act, 1986, and the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Act, 2019.

The NCW stated that the recommendations aim to promote gender justice and ensure stronger legal protection and social empowerment for Muslim women across the country.