The AIMPLB legal commission is closely studying the Supreme Court order to explore all legal avenues.

The ruling has sparked heated debate within the Muslim community and among several personal bar boards.

The AIMPLB's position is based on the belief that the order contradicts Islamic Shariat law, which stipulates that the husband is obliged to pay maintenance only during the Iddat period (a period of three and a quarter months) following the divorce.

After this period, the woman is free to remarry or live independently, and the ex-husband is no longer responsible for her support.

Maulana Khalid Rashid Farangi Mahali, a member of the AIMPLB, expressed concern over the implications of the order on gender equality.

He said: "Our legal committee will review the order carefully. Under the Constitution, every citizen has the right to live according to the customs of his religion. For communities with personal laws, such as Muslims, these laws guide their daily lives, including marriage matters. and divorce."

He further explained the principles of Muslim personal law and highlighted that while marriage was meant to be a lifelong commitment, there were provisions for divorce if irreconcilable differences arose.

He questioned the rationale behind extending maintenance obligations beyond the 'Iddat' period, arguing: "When there is no relationship, why should maintenance be paid? In what capacity should a man be responsible for someone with whom he no longer shares a marriage bond?

The AIMPLB will convene a meeting on Sunday to discuss the Supreme Court order and deliberate on the legal options available.

AIMPLB spokesperson Syed Qasim Rasool Ilyas explained the board's stance, emphasizing that the order was perceived as a violation of Shariat law and the constitutional protections granted by the Shariat Implementation Act and Article 25, which guaranteed the freedom to practice religion.

"We are exploring all legal and constitutional remedies," Ilyas said.

"The findings of our legal committee will guide our next steps, which could include filing a petition for review."

On the contrary, the All India Shia Personal Law Board (AISPLB) has expressed its support for the Supreme Court's decision.

AISPLB Secretary General Maulana Yasoob Abbas praised the ruling, calling it a humanitarian gesture that prioritized the well-being of women.

"On humanitarian grounds, the court's order is very beneficial for women," Abbas said.

"Not everything should be seen through the lens of religion. If a woman receives support following a court order, it is a positive step for her. Those who bring religion into this debate should recognize the fact that a woman gives the best days of her life. life to her husband, her family and her children, she gives her best in her service, but once she gets divorced, you turn your back on her.

All India Muslim Women's Personal Law Board president Shaista Amber said: "This order highlights the balance between religious doctrines and humanitarian considerations, raising questions on the interpretation and application of personal laws in society. "I have fought for women's rights and they deserve support for the rest of their lives, no one can turn their back on them after three months and 10 days."

Maulana Nazar, state vice-president Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind, said: "The Constitution has granted freedom of religion and the decision of the Supreme Court clashes with this provision of the Constitution. The court should examine the provisions of the Muslim religion. In such circumstances, the court must review its order."