In a major political win, Parliament on Tuesday approved the bill that makes instant triple talaq a criminal offence. The contentious legislation was approved in the Rajya Sabha after it received 99 votes in favour and 84 against it. Lok Sabha had passed the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill last week and with Rajya Sabha now approving it.

According to the legislation, the practice of instant divorce by Muslim men will be punishable by a jail term of up to three years. The bill will replace an ordinance promulgated last on February 21 after the President grants the assent.