'The number you are calling is currently switched off.'
'Please try later.'
Dad.
Dad, Zahid has divorced me.
He was saying that he's in love with someone else.
'Dad, I have made a huge mistake.'
'Mom and you had warned me.'
'I have given you enough pain.'
'That's why today, I...'
'But what can I do?'
'I'm not able to bear this pain anymore.'
I'm not able to tolerate it.
Dad...
The one for whom I hurt my mom and dad,
'he...'
'I don't want to suffocate and die in pain.'
'Dad, please forgive me.'
'Goodbye.'
Zainab.
How long will you take? Hurry up, now.
We're getting late.
I'm coming.
- Come quickly. - I'll be there in two minutes.
You take too long, Zainab.
- Dad... - Let me read the paper, my dear.
How will you read without your glasses?
Mom...
Did you have your breakfast?
- Yes, I did. - Greetings.
- Greetings. Did you take your lunch? - Yes, I did.
Oh, God. Ashfu, Firu... wake up.
Don't you want to go to college? Wake up quickly. - My dear.
Just two more minutes, please.
- My dear... - Get up now.
What's the problem? Can't you all wait
- for even two minutes? - Hurry. We're getting late. Sit.
You'll get us killed.
Why do you take so long? Did you finish my work?
Yes, my dear. What's your big hurry? I'm here now.
The girls are also responsible
for all the abuse that happens to them.
They wear all sorts of clothes and come out on the streets.
Girls should not walk around showing their bodies to others.
The girls who wear revealing clothes
may not face any problems.
But because of them, other girls might get into trouble.
That's why I would like to say,
it's wrong only to blame boys for such things.
Our dear friend said
that women are abused because of the kind of clothes they wear.
I have only one question for people who think like that.
Small girls who are six months or one year old,
what's the problem with the kind of clothes they are wearing?
If we want to bring a change in society
then we have to stop differentiating
between boys and girls in our homes.
I would like to conclude by saying,
Women are mothers.
Not your property.
Seriously, Suman was mind-blowing. She was amazing.
Truly, Suman.
You gave a fantastic speech. We thoroughly enjoyed it.
No, those were not my lines. Zainab had written the speech.
Is it?
That's great.
We'll have to make you contest the elections from our party this time.
Election...
- Say it. - We're fine with just writing.
We can't contest in an election.
Why can't you contest?
There's a lot of scope in politics.
Listen to me, you can make your career in this.
Actually, Siddhi... We won't be able to do this. But...
We can do one thing. We will help in promoting you.
That's also fine. There's an event on Women's Day.
- Get started with the preparations. - Okay, sure. - Yes, we will do it.
"Oh, Queen of my dreams..."
Let us taste some 'samosas.'
Everyone tastes sweets before buying them. But, 'samosa?'
Think of it as a sweet and give them some.
Please give us the 'samosas.'
It's good.
- We also want four servings. - Yes.
- Yes, we also want. - Yes, please.
Brother, give us some 'matthi.'
- And some of these savoury snacks, too. - Yes.
Give us some spicy dip along with it.
- Give us a sweet dip. - Yes...
- Never mind them. - Okay, brother, tell us,
How much will two cutlets, one 'samosa' and a packet of chips cost?
- The total is 80. - 80?
- 80?
80?
Not 80... Reduce it.
- We are ordering 300 portions, right? - Hmm. - Yes.
- Finalise it for 50. - Yes. - That won't be possible.
Why not?
It will be possible.
Why are you interfering?
What's wrong?
I was just helping you out.
Did we ask you? For your help?
Under the pretext of helping, you'll ask our names
then you'll take our numbers and keep calling us. - Stop it.
Just a minute.
Why will we ask your names?
Give us your numbers.
We're not asking you. This is what people tell us.
Very good.
Are you high?
Okay, listen.
Is there a mirror on your bike?
Yes, I have two mirrors.
Go and look at yourself in it.
Stop behaving like you've never seen girls before. - Madam...
- We are not so cheap. - How cheap are you, then?
I'm so cheap that you will call me in two days.
I challenge you.
Come on, guys.
What happened?
- Hello. - Where are you?
Madam, the food packets have been sent from here.
Are you delivering something for the first time? - Tell him.
You're very disrespectful.
This parasite has followed you all the way here.
If Siddhi finds out, then you've had it.
Get out.
If I go away, who will satisfy your hunger?
What?
What do you mean?
Hurry up.
'Samosas.' Hunger?
You ordered it. I delivered it.
And anyway, remember my challenge?
I said that you would call me within two days and ask me to come.
- So, that's it. - Just a second. That snacks shop...
It's not my father's shop. But it's my Uncle's shop.
My Uncle's shop has a taste of our family tradition.
I don't know if I should say sorry or thank you.
"Like dew drops inside a veil."
"Like heartbeats have found a rhythm."
"You are to me what a medicine is for a wound."
"Like someone placed their hand on my soul."
"Like how words take a side."
"Like the moon is hugged by the night. Every moment is beautiful."
"For the first time, I'm feeling these vibrations in my heart."
"Two hearts have come close under a blanket of light."
"Wow, what is this magic?"
"Wow, God has made you with care."
"Wow, there is a shower of mercy."
"Wow, what is this magic?"
"Your shyness is tender like dew drops."
"They stole me from myself."
"Your lovely eyes and carefree attitude."
"Gave me a thousand dreams."
"I got everything when I found you"
"I am nothing without you."
"For the first time, I'm feeling these vibrations in my heart."
"Two hearts have come close under a blanket of light."
"Wow, what is this magic?"
"Wow, God has made you with care."
"Wow, there is a shower of mercy."
"Wow, what is this magic?"
Zainab.
- Where is Zainab? - She's offering prayers inside.
Okay.
- Greetings. - Greetings.
- Here, read this.
Leave that now. Look at this.
- What is the problem? - Look.
- Come... - Come.
We have come from home, right?
Nothing will happen. He's been waiting for quite some time now.
What is this way of meeting?
I'm not all that free that I can come every time you call me.
The matter was such, that I had to meet you.
I'll go and make a call until then.
Don't turn into a news channel, please.
Bye-bye.
She's doing the right thing.
- Uh... - Hmm.
Uh... I mean... I want
the entire world to find out.
Find out what?
That...
I love you very much.
Arbaaz.
I have never thought about love.
That's a lie.
Why would I lie?
I want to focus on my studies.
Who is stopping you from studying? You can continue your studies later.
What do you mean later?
Zainab, will you marry me?
Arbaaz, I respect your feelings.
But we are very good friends.
Stop a little ahead, please.
- Study. - That's what I'm doing.
- Aunt! - Yes.
- How are you? - Hey...
- You've come after so many days. - Wow, look at you.
Are you going somewhere, my dear?
Yes, I have an interview to attend. And then, I have my MBA class.
- I'll be back by 7:00 p.m. - Will you be back only by 7:00 p.m.?
Yes, please rest until then.
- Goodbye. - Goodbye
- Greetings, sister. - Samad.
What have you thought about getting her married?
But, sister...
She's still studying.
Let her work for a while after that and...
How much more do you want her to study?
If she keeps on studying like this, then she'll never settle down.
Anyway, as per our family traditions, she has studied more than enough.
And her mother won't even know how much she has studied.
All this is just a waste of money. It's not going to be of any use.
No, it's not like that.
She earns her pocket money by running a tuition class.
She helps us with the household expenses, too. - Oh, God.
Will you depend on your daughter for money?
Please, sister...
I'm not using her money for anything.
Just a second.
- Hello. - Uh... Zainab.
'I wanted to meet you.'
Uh... I'm going home now. Did you have some work with me?
'Actually, I wanted to tell you something.'
Tell me, then. - 'No, I wanted to meet you and tell you.'
My Aunt has come home today. I'll call you when I'm free. Okay?
Okay. But, Zainab...
Zainab, have some tea.
Did you drink your tea, Dad?
Samad.
Hmm...
- Hmm. - The envelope is right here.
What is in this?
What's this, Dad?
These are some alliances for you.
Your Aunt has brought them.
One of them works in a bank,
one of them has his own business
and the third one is a real estate agent.
All of them are from Ghaziabad.
Dad, you know that I want to study, right?
I want to do an MBA and then find a job.
- What happened to you all of a sudden? - Your Dad has come back to his senses.
It'll be better if you also come back to your senses. Stop your studies now.
Aunt, only educated people are valued in the world.
I will study, work hard and help Dad.
Dad, I cannot marry now.
You don't want to marry now. Later on, no one will want to marry you.
Then, it's your dad who will face humiliation.
Is that okay with you?
When people will say
that instead of getting you married, your Dad was greedy about your income.
They will also say that he was the one who ruined your life.
Zainab,
you've helped me enough.
Please do me another favour.
- Please get married. - But, dad. You know...
There's no urgency.
Think about it for a couple of days and let me know.
- Zainab. - Mom...
I don't want to leave you all and go.
What has happened to Dad?
I won't go anywhere.
This is how a woman's life is.
A woman never has her own home.
Wherever she goes
she has to adapt to her house.
She has to fulfil everyone's desires and expectations.
But a woman... A woman cannot have expectations from anyone.
But, mom. I don't want to go away from all of you.
What if I find someone here? I can stay here, can't I?
Is there anyone you like? If so, tell me.
I will speak to your Dad. Hmm?
It is rightly said that only one heart can understand another.
Look now, I have been wishing for so long
that you call me someday and ask me to come and meet you.
And I called you.
- Tell me why you wanted to meet me. - Ladies, first.
This lady will listen and you will speak.
Okay. Show me your tongue.
- What nonsense. - Come on.
I'm sure you have a mole on your tongue.
- Whatever you say comes true. - What had I said?
Do you remember you said
that I will surely find a girl who will love me.
- Hmm. - I have found that girl.
A girl who loves me.
And yes, that...
My mother also approves of her.
And my wedding is fixed with her.
This is very good news, Arbaaz.
Congratulations.
If you see her
then you'll go crazy.
Is she so beautiful?
See for yourself.
I hope you're not upset with me.
No, silly. Why would I be upset?
I thought that you loved him a lot.
If I loved him, would I let you have him?
Actually, his mother had liked me at the banquet.
And his Mom and mine finalised our engagement.
I'm happy for you, Shenaz.
Thank you.
Excuse me, I'm also here.
And Zainab, you did not tell me, why you wanted to meet me.
Uh... I just wanted to say that my wedding also has been fixed.
- The boy is from Ghaziabad. - What?
But your news is bigger than mine.
- Welcome. Please be seated - Greetings.
Greetings.
Greetings, please sit down.
He is my brother, Samad. His daughter is Zainab.
Zainab, please come out.
Aunt, if you all don't have a problem
then can my brother speak to Zainab alone for a few minutes?
- Yes, sure. - Why not?
Cigarette?
Don't be shy.
I don't smoke.
I smoke.
Do you go to clubbing?
How about partying? Do you like beer, whiskey or rum?
No.
Nothing?
In that case, we are not a match.
You're not my type. Thanks.
"You are my prayer, and you are my wish."
"In the heaven of my heart you became the light that I worship."
"You're in my heart and your name is on my lips."
"Whether you love me or not you are mine now."
"You are my night, you are my words, I cannot live without you."
"I will decorate this world for you."
"I cannot live without you."
"There has been no sorrow ever since I met you."
"I walk every step with you."
"You are my need now."
"Let us walk the path of love together."
"A place where no one will meet us"
"I have found calm because of you."
"I won't be able to live even for a moment without you."
"I will willingly give up my life for you."
"You're in my heart and your name is on my lips."
"Whether you love me or not you are mine now."
"You are my night, you are my words, I cannot live without you."
"I will decorate this world for you I cannot live without you."
The priest is here.
- Greetings. - Greetings.
Zainab Sheikh, daughter of Samad Sheikh
your marriage has been fixed to Hanif Qureshi, son of Wasim Qureshi
for a token of Rs 50,000.
Do you accept it?
I accept.
- I accept. - She has accepted it.
I accept.
I accept. I accept.
"You are my night, you are my words, I cannot live without you."
"I will decorate this world for you I cannot live without you."
Hey, what's this? Go ahead.
What are you looking at? Drive quickly.
- Get out. Come on. - Hanif.
What's the matter? You are very fond of honking, are you?
- Hanif, listen to me. - Will I build a building on the street?
- Will I stay here forever? - Let him go.
Is this your Dad's road?
Please leave him. Let us go.
The street does not belong to your father, either.
Hanif!
Hanif... Hanif.
Keep quiet. Go and wait there. Can't you see I'm talking to him?
Don't interfere. Go and wait there.
Go and sit.
Are you showing off because the girl is with you? Meet me ahead.
You just wait.
Hanif.
Get out.
Leave him, Hanif.
Hello, Zainab. How are you?
I'm fine, Mom. How are you?
I'm also fine.
- Is your health okay? - Yes, I'm fine.
'I hope there is no swelling in your feet.'
No, not yet.
'We are moving to our new house very soon. When will you come?'
I'll call you later, Mom.
But, you...
Mom! It's a girl.
- Congratulations, Hanif. - Thank you.
Please let me ride the cycle.
Chutki, I won't give you the cycle.
You can go to Ghaziabad and ride your cycle.
- Mom, let's go to Ghaziabad. - What happened now?
Guddu is not giving me the cycle.
I will scold Guddu, okay?
There's mail for Zainab Sheikh.
Please give it to me.
The speed post is in her name. I have to hand it over to her.
Zainab.
There's a speed post in your name. Please come and take it.
I'm doing the dishes, Dad. Please receive it on my behalf.
- Okay? Thank you. - Thank you.
Zainab...
Zainab.
What happened? She...
Zainab. Why did you close the door?
Zainab, open the door.
This...
Mom.
Zainab...
- Please open the door, Zainab. - Zainab.
- Please say something, Zainab. - Zainab.
Zainab.
- Yes, Dad. - 'Please come home quickly.'
- What happened, Dad? - 'Please come.'
What happened to Ashfaq?
Mom, Zainab will not listen to anyone.
Only Suman can speak to her now.
Uh... Rahul, did you send the project?
- Neha. - Yes, ma'am.
Haven't you sent the assignments yet?
Ma'am, I'm yet to finish them.
- I had told you... - Sorry, ma'am.
- Please do it, okay? - Okay, ma'am.
Hello, Mother. How are you?
- 'Zainab is here.' - Has Zainab come?
Mother, where is Zainab? What happened?
Look what her family has done.
Her husband has divorced her through a letter.
Zainab's divorce?
Zainab. It's me, Suman.
Open the door, please.
- Sit down. - You sit down.
You've changed so much.
Do you know, every time I spoke to you, I would feel that all is not well
going by the way you would talk to me?
And that something was very wrong.
Neither did you tell your parents.
At least tell me.
When I have to bear the pain all alone,
what's the use of telling anyone and creating a drama.
Look, Zainab. Please...
We will find a solution, isn't it?
And you will feel lighter if you share your pain.
I had tolerated everything that a regular daughter-in-law has to face.
Everything...
'No, I think red will be too bright.'
'Hey... be careful. It might break.'
'It has come from her house.'
- 'What do you call it in English? - Imported.'
'It's imported.'
'Nothing came from your house, anyway.'
'What are you looking at? Go to the kitchen and get the food ready.'
'Ouch!'
'Zainab, are you feeling okay?'
'Yes, I'm fine.'
'Why don't you go to your mother's house for a few days?'
'What problem does she have here? Huh?'
'People will gossip about us, saying, we don't take care of her.'
This was the third time I got pregnant.
But... you have just one daughter.
I mean, what happened to the second one?
My sister-in-law and co-sister
- took me to another doctor. - Hmm.
After coming back from the doctor's my co-sister came into the kitchen.
She told me to rest and that they would finish the cooking.
I found it very strange that she was talking so sweetly.
But I was so stupid. I did not understand anything.
She brought my plate, and I ate it.
After that,
I began feeling dizzy.
When I woke up,
I was in the hospital.
But my baby was not with me.
The stitches healed my wounds,
but my soul lost all purpose.
I had already made a picture of my baby in my mind.
I was beginning to paint her picture.
But these people deleted the image altogether.
And this time...
It was my third pregnancy.
'What's the matter? Where is Rubina?'
'She must be getting ready.'
- 'They're quite late. - They should be here soon.'
- 'Greetings, Mom. - Greetings.'
- 'Hanif. - Yes, Mom.'
'The doctor whom you take Zainab to'
'only delivers girl babies.'
'The women who have consulted with Zarina's doctor'
'have only given birth to boy babies.'
'Hanif, Mother is not educated. But you are educated, aren't you?'
'Can't you convince her?'
'So, do you want me to teach Mom, Science?'
'That XY Chromosomes result in boys and XX Chromosomes in girls?'
'Should I tell her that a boy or girl is decided by the husband's chromosomes?'
'I was six years old, when my father died.'
'After that, Mom has managed everything.'
'She brought up all of us very well.'
'After God, our Mom is everything to us.'
'Zainab, please listen to what Mom says.'
'Okay.'
'I will go to the doctor suggested by Mother.'
'But I have a condition.'
'After coming back from the doctor,'
'I will go back to my house.'
'Whether this baby is a boy or a girl,'
'he or she will be born in my Mom's house.'
'Okay.'
'Everything is fine.'
'Doctor.'
'Is it a boy or a girl?'
'We cannot reveal that now.'
'The doctor had checked the same way as last time.'
'She gave me some medicine and the baby was aborted.'
'That's why I'm asking you. Because that doctor was also a woman.'
'Zainab, where are you going?'
'To make dinner.'
'But, the doctor has told you to rest.'
'Hanif has gone out for work.'
'If he finds out, what will he think?'
'Go and rest in your room. I will send your food to your room.'
'Uh... I'm not hungry.'
'You're not hungry. But your baby must be hungry, right?'
'I'll send some dry fruits and milk.'
'Here you go. Drink this.'
- 'And have the dry fruits, too. - Thank you.'
'Thank you.'
'What are you doing? Where are you going?'
'I'm going home.'
'In this condition?'
'Please rest now. I'll drop you off after a few days.'
'I cannot live here for another minute.'
'Huh? Why?'
'What happened in this house?'
'My daughter's murderers live in this house.'
'Have you gone mad? What nonsense are you talking about?'
'I'm telling the truth. Your Mom and sister-in-law are killers.'
'They killed both my daughters.'
'Keep quiet.'
'What nonsense are you talking about? Mind your tongue. Otherwise...'
'Otherwise, what? What will you do?'
'What else can you do, other than supporting these killers?'
'You became blind in your mother's love and got your daughters killed.'
'Quiet.'
'Are you the only one who is hurt about the babies?'
'Were they not my babies too?'
'Weren't they mine?'
No...
I'm feeling as if I have killed my own daughters. - No.
No, Zainab...
You're a very strong woman, aren't you?
And...
You have tolerated a lot.
But...
What next?
I don't know.
I have no idea what to do.
- Sir, have you brought the paper? - Give me the paper.
There is not much scope in this.
Your divorce comes under the 'Muslim Personal Law.'
We cannot do much in that.
Don't we have any other options?
No.
As long as the 'triple talaq' law exists, there is no other option.
And this law will never be changed.
I... I don't want anything for myself.
My daughter is still young.
How can I manage her education and upbringing?
You're repeating the same thing.
The case can go on for a very long time. There's no guarantee what you will get.
I will narrate an incident to you.
A case was filed in 1997.
The case between Razak Ahmed and Hamida Begum went on for 16 years.
In 2013, she got a compensation of Rs 680.
What's the use?
I'll give you the right suggestion.
I'm telling you this because you have come through Mr Sheikh.
The best you can do is find a good job and earn your livelihood.
You will earn more than the compensation that you're expecting.
You'll only waste your time running from pillar to post.
What did the lawyer say?
Our divorce falls under 'Muslim Personal Law.'
The court or lawyers cannot do anything in this case.
Hey... that's really strange.
Do we have to just watch our husbands divorce us whenever they want?
Will they escape scot-free?
How can they wash their hands off? We will take the compensation.
Look at this. I found this address on the internet.
'Muslim Mahila Haq Andolan' is an organisation
that helps divorced Muslim women.
Millions of cases across the country have used the 'triple talaq law.'
One girl was divorced
because she added excess salt in the food.
Another case was because the girl did not give a good head message...
The cases are very strange.
Most Muslim women
are living in fear.
They are scared of getting divorced.
As of now,
80 Muslim women are living here with their children.
We have been protesting about this matter for many years now.
But no government office wants to support us.
Because no politician
wants to upset the Muslim vote bank.
Ma'am, we have understood one thing for sure,
that we cannot go to the civil court to fight against 'triple talaq.'
But the physical abuse that I have tolerated...
Don't women like me have any laws in our support?
There are laws.
Based on what happened to you in your in-laws house,
you can file a case against your in-laws,
citing a complaint of domestic violence.
No one can stop you from doing this.
What do you both think? Will she be able to do something?
Yes, why not?
At least she's trying to get everyone together.
I have understood one thing.
We have to get the police on our side and teach your in-laws a proper lesson.
She's right.
Hey... I have an idea.
Mr Anwar.
These daily family dramas that you bring to me,
you are aware that your laws are different, aren't you?
If we try to help you, later we look like fools.
I can't do it. I can't help you.
Sir, I want to talk to you.
- Sister, let me talk. - It's okay. Let me speak.
Please let me explain my situation to him.
Sir, I want to file a complaint against my in-laws.
I cannot file your complaint. Your laws work differently.
But why can't you file a complaint?
You can file a complaint for domestic violence.
I have been physically abused.
Hey, Madam. Will you teach me law now? I've been doing this for 15 years now.
I said I cannot register your complaint.
Why can't you take my complaint?
Has the Government of India not made this rule for the safety of women?
Am I not an Indian woman?
Are you refusing to take my complaint just because I'm a Muslim?
You can assume whatever your wish, but I cannot take your complaint.
Sir, you're forgetting that these laws apply to all the women...
Don't teach me the law.
I will. Because you're wrong.
Don't make me lose my mind.
- I won't register your complaint. - Mishra.
- What is going on here? - Good morning, sir.
Please pass the 'biryani.'
Give the rice, too.
- Just a minute. Please help yourself. - Okay.
- Hello. - 'Is this Hanif Qureshi?'
Yes, speaking.
This is Inspector Rajdeep Singh from Dehradun.
Zainab Sheikh has filed a complaint against you for domestic violence.
'Do you understand domestic violence?'
But, Mr Singh, we are divorced.
'Yes, I know everything.'
You had physically abused her before you divorced her.
'And you got her aborted without her knowledge, twice. Am I right?'
Look, it's a family matter. Please come and meet her once.
You can sit here and settle the matter with her.
'Otherwise, your mother, sister, brother and sister-in-law,'
will all be imprisoned along with you.
I was sure she would do this.
- Mom, we can get arrested at any moment. - Yes.
Then he won't be able to go to Dubai.
That’s right.
Mom, we can bribe the police
or pacify Zainab and close the matter here.
Hanif.
Please settle this, otherwise, all of us will be jailed.
How can I do all this?
What do you mean by that? Huh?
She's making a false case and trapping us.
And you're standing here taking her side.
Why don't you do what Rubina is telling you?
Why are you quiet looking at all this?
Stop it, Mom. I've had enough.
I'm tired of listening to all of you.
I'm going to do whatever I feel is right.
What is right for you? At least tell us what you are going to do.
Zainab, I'm sorry. Please forgive me if you can.
I've made a mistake.
Hanif is apologising for his mistake. Please forgive him.
Sir, My problems will not be solved with his apology.
My daughter is very small.
How will I manage her studies and upbringing, all alone?
Hanif, Zainab is also right.
I agree that nothing is fine between the two of you
but I'm sure you had feelings for her at some point in time.
Don't feel that you're giving her compensation,
think that you're giving a gift to your child.
Sir, I accept my mistake.
I did whatever I did out of anger.
I cannot live without her.
I want to
marry Zainab once again.
Zainab. - He divorced me because he was angry with me.
And now he wants to apologise and marry me again.
I'm not able to understand,
if he's saying this from the bottom of his heart
or because he's worried that his family will be sent to jail.
Sir, I'm telling the truth.
I won't let Zainab go through any trouble.
Zainab.
Sometimes, to move ahead in life, we have to forget the old things.
I need time to think.
Zainab.
We will drop both of you off on the way.
Hanif will speak to Ayesha on the way.
Please tell her to come along with us.
Give me five. Yay!
Zainab.
Just a minute. Come here.
Zainab, I know you've gone through a lot.
It's not entirely Hanif's fault.
I promise you that this will not happen again.
And I will get you and Hanif shifted to another place.
Zainab, I have also changed several decisions for my children's sake.
Try to think like a mother
not a wife. With God's grace, everything will be fine.
- Greetings. - Greetings.
Once you've written 'triple talaq' and given it, then the divorce is final.
I did it in a fit of anger.
I love my wife a lot.
We have a lovely daughter, too.
Sir.
Whether it was done in anger or in any other manner,
according to the 'sharia,'
a true Muslim should think before saying such things.
I've made a mistake.
I want to bring her back home.
I want to re-marry her.
This is very good news.
You can get married to her again.
But, first 'halala' has to be done.
I hope you understand what that means.
Yes.
Ayesha, Shall we go to the toy store?
She has so many toys at home, Mom.
Just a minute, Mom.
- Look at that dress... - Hello.
Hello.
- Zainab. - Yes, tell me.
I met the 'Imam' today.
He said
we can get married again, but...
But...
You have to go through 'halala.'
'Once that is done,'
we can get remarried again.
Without 'halala', our remarriage will not be legal.
Zainab.
Come on, Ayesha. Go to sleep. Stop this now.
Mom, why does Dad not live with us?
Because Dad's office is in Ghaziabad, right?
When will we go back to dad?
When my dad allows me to go back, then we will go to your dad.
- Okay? - Hmm.
Come on, go to sleep now.
Sleep.
Zainab.
Your Aunt had called up.
What's her problem now?
She...
Hanif had gone to meet her.
He was telling her
that you have not replied.
Zainab,
you will have to give a reply, whether it is a 'yes' or 'no.'
- Mom, I.. - Zainab.
Look.
You're not the first woman, who will be going through 'halala.'
These things like marriage and 'halala,'
have been in practice for many years now.
And...
When 'sharia' says it's right,
how can it be wrong?
- Mom, I... - Listen.
Why are you worried?
Your 'halala' will be with
a close relative.
He will divorce you on the next day of the marriage.
And then,
once you finish the 'iddat,'
you will be re-married to Hanif.
One day, when Hassan did not get his drug, he beat me up very badly.
In a fit of anger, he said, 'talaq,' three times and divorced me.
He began to apologise to me the next morning.
The very next day
people from the Masjid Committee came to our house
and said that I cannot live with Hassan anymore.
Because he has divorced me.
I was finding it very difficult to manage the kids.
Then, my 'nikah halala' was done
with my brother-in-law, Tahir.
Tahir did not touch me.
And he divorced me the next day.
I got re-married to Hassan.
One day, Tahir's friends
began to pull his leg using my name.
In a fit of anger, he also declared
that he had not even touched me.
And this matter
spread in the neighbourhood like wild-fire.
The Masjid Committee once again landed up in our house.
They said I cannot live with Hassan.
Because my marriage with him is not legal.
Zainab, he has accepted his fault.
He's made the mistake, but you have to go through 'halala.'
This is the problem.
This is why we are fighting.
The real reason
is the wrong usage of the 'triple talaq' rule.
'Nikah halala,'
is a punishment for the men.
But the women have to go through it.
Dear sisters, the man with whom I had 'halala,'
meets me every 'Eid' festival.
I cannot look him in the eye.
I have had to go through 'halala' five times.
When my children will grow up,
and they will find out that their mother had to go through 'halala'
what will they think about me?
Hanif, this is Zainab's Aunt.
Please talk to Zainab.
Here you go.
Because you did not reply to me, I told aunt to talk to you once.
I've spoken to Danish about the wedding.
Danish, is my brother's assistant.
You've seen him before.
Yes.
He's getting married to Nazneen after six months.
He will marry you, and divorce you the very next day.
So, does Nazneen have no problem with this?
No. Because this ritual is just a formality.
And...
I mean...
It's a question of just one night.
'If you'
'say yes...'
I need time to think.
Aunt, your phone.
Zainab, listen to me.
I was the one who had brought this alliance.
Even since you have got divorced,
I'm feeling a heavy weight on my heart.
Please say yes.
I want to see you settle down,
before I die.
Please say yes.
As you all deem right.
How is this?
It's beautiful.
Look at it first.
Yes, it's nice.
Then buy it for me.
What will you do with this? We will end up keeping it in the bank locker.
I'll wear it during some function.
Which function is there now? I'll buy it if an occasion arises.
Okay.
Hello.
You sound very happy. Looks like you said yes.
- How did you find out? - I know you very well.
What's the reaction from the other side?
Hanif has purchased a gift for me, for the first time.
- And he told you about it. - No, he didn't. I found out.
How did you find out?
Even my number is registered on the Amazon website.
I'm so glad. You're sounding cheerful after so many days.
'Okay, listen. I'm going to Ghaziabad for one week.'
- What work do you have there? - 'We have training for a few days'
'so I thought I'd let you know since your in-laws live there. Okay?'
Hmm.
- Shall we sit there? - Hmm.
- Thank you. - I'll get coffee and come.
I must say, we had a good meeting.
- Excuse me. - We both need...
- Just a minute. Nahida... - Hmm. - What would you like?
- I'll have coffee. - Which one?
- Black coffee. - Okay. Two black coffees, please.
Thank you for the beautiful gift.
So, finally
you learnt how to impress girls.
Where did you get these?
Hanif just left with this woman after drinking coffee. I was in the same cafe.
And he's given the gift that you were telling me about, to her.
Do you know this woman?
Yes.
'What are you looking at?'
'She's his Uncle's daughter.'
'She's come from Dubai. I had ordered a few things. She's here to give them.'
She is Hanif's Uncle's daughter, Nahida.
I think something is wrong here. When are you getting married?
In exchange for a token of Rs 5,000
your wedding is being fixed with Danish Mohammed.
Do you accept this wedding?
Where is Danish?
This man who is sitting here is Danish Mohammed.
No.
He is not the same Danish whom we had spoken about.
- Do you know him? - Yes.
He is Hanif's Uncle.
And I don't agree with this wedding.
What are you doing? Everything else will go as planned.
Where is Danish?
His mother was not keeping well. So, he backed out at the last moment.
And that necklace?
- Which necklace? - The one that you ordered on Amazon.
That is at home.
Please check your Whatsapp messages.
You were romancing with Nahida in the coffee shop.
Your wedding is fixed with her, right?
You were going to Dubai after getting married to her.
And just to get me out of the way
you were getting me married to your uncle.
So that I can keep begging him for a divorce after I get married.
This was your plan, right?
What nonsense are you talking about?
I'm not talking nonsense.
I've sent these photos to Farida also
and she has accepted that this is the truth.
What mistake have I made?
My wedding with Nahida would help me set up my business.
Life is secure when you have money in your hands.
I would have married Nahida and then married you.
- You're such a cheap stake. - You're the cheap one.
You knew all this beforehand, right? Why did you agree to go ahead then?
What was the need for all this drama?
Need? There was a need. There is a need.
If I hadn't done this drama
then how would your sneaky family be exposed?
If I would not make an issue now,
then my mom, my dad and my aunt
would call it my mistake.
Why?
Is it because I'm a woman?
Get out.
Get out of here, or else, I'll file a police complaint.
Are you threatening to go to the police? Go ahead.
Do you think that this is only your city and only you have contacts?
I also know people in this city. Go and do as you, please.
I'll do it. And I'll surely do it.
Go ahead. I'm not scared of you.
My Islam allows me to have four wives.
And I'm allowed to divorce three times.
I will marry and give divorce.
Go and do as you please.
I will break it.
I will break your arrogance.
Many people have mocked
and misused the pure and virtuous
'triple talaq,' for their benefit.
They have made women a laughingstock.
I promise you,
I will break the arrogance of people like you.
I will snatch the right of 'triple talaq' from every man like you
who uses a woman as a toy.
Go.
I've seen many like you, who fight for their rights.
They disappeared after a while.
Even if one of them was like me
then this job would have been done long back.
What hasn't happened until now, will happen now.
And if I'm right,
then my Almighty is with me.
Let's go.
Do you want to put an end to the 'triple talaq' law?
Yes, ma'am.
We will have to challenge this law in the Supreme Court.
Think about it.
I also tried and ended up going from pillar to post.
Court, lawyers...
There was pressure from the family and society.
In fact, a 'fatwa' was issued in my name.
But, in the end, I was forced to withdraw the case.
After that, I started this NGO.
You will also face pressure from society.
Will you be able to go through all this?
I've tolerated so much in my life.
Things that I have never thought I would have to endure.
But now, I want to do something for my rights.
Hello, sir. Zainab is here. Ms Zubeida has sent her.
Zainab.
- Come in. - Greetings. - Greetings. Please sit down.
Do you want to file the case?
Yes.
- Vishal. - Yes, sir.
File this PIL, please.
Okay. Good.
- You're doing a noble job. - Thank you.
But the problem is that I'm occupied with many other cases.
And I don't think I'll be able to make time for your case.
But Ms Zubeida was praising you a lot.
She believes that if you take up this case... - Yes, that's why...
I will feel guilty if I'm not able to give time to the case.
Then my relation with her will turn sour.
Please give her my best wishes.
- Vishal, please file the PIL carefully. - Yes, sir.
- Have you filed this case? - Zainab.
Take this, too.
Sir, why did you refuse such a big case?
If I would take up this case,
then all our Muslim clients would stop coming to us.
We have to think about everything.
You took Zainab very lightly.
- She's an educated girl. - It's done now.
- Please accept your mistake. - I've already accepted it.
What's the point of repeating the same thing over and over again?
There is a point. We belong to the body of Muslim scholars.
If the women of our house behave like this,
then who will listen to our words?
Go to her hometown and stop her.
Before she insults us any further,
- stop her. - We will stop her.
We will stop her.
- Is it easy to stop her? - Yes, it is easy for me.
Do you remember my childhood friend, Rahman?
I have helped him a lot. Now he will help me. Together, we can stop her.
Hey... what...
Have we received the money from the donations? - No.
- Talk to them. - Yes, sir.
Okay.
- Greetings. - Greetings, Hanif.
- How are you? - I'm good, by God's grace.
- Greetings. - Please sit down.
Everything will be fine, Hanif.
What's the problem?
There is no issue. Your wife must have just said it out of anger.
Anyway...
If this is how the 'triple talaq' law will end, then we're done for.
Rahman, even I had thought the same.
But I found out that she's meeting with lawyers regarding this.
Who are all with her?
The people from 'Muslim Mahila Haq Andolan.'
People from 'Muslim Mahila Haq Andolan.'
Sir, the 'triple talaq' people are here.
- Oh, the 'triple talaq' people, is it? - Yes, sir.
- Greetings, Mr Khan. - Greetings.
Please tell me what I can do for you today.
I heard the 'triple talaq' case is doing the rounds.
It's not making the rounds, Mr Khan. It's waiting outside my door.
Don't let it come inside. And yes...
make sure no one else takes up the case.
'Who will dare to take it up, Mr Khan?'
'Have a little faith, I'm the President of the Bar Association.'
'You were the one who had chosen me.'
'Greetings.'
- Shall I call them inside? - Can't you see?
I got a call not to take the case even before I could think of taking it.
- 'What happened?' - Suman, I can't understand something.
Why are the lawyers refusing to meet us?
Maybe they already know the outcome of this.
Or maybe they don't want to stand up against the Muslim community.
I will stand up against the evil in the community, not the community.
I'm going to meet Devdutt Asthana.
Is he the same lawyer who takes up cases of improving society? - Hmm.
I charge one million to one and a half million rupees for one hearing
in the Supreme Court.
Please connect with an NGO in this case.
It will be a little easier for you.
Sir, I've heard a lot about you.
You always stand with the truth.
And you also fight cases free of cost for improving society.
Media...
This media gives all kinds of information.
I take the money and I take it from everyone.
'And when you come the next time,'
'please bring my consultancy fees of Rs 100,000.'
'Sorry, Zainab. I cannot take your case because there is pressure on me, too.'
'You are sure to lose. There is no meaning in this case.'
'I'm so sorry, Zainab. It won't be possible today.'
'The law in India can never change.'
'You're wasting your time.'
'Zainab, my child. Why are you doing this? None of this is going to be easy.'
'Our party will surely help you.'
'But, you'll have to talk in favour of our party.'
'Running around for the case, the expenses, it's all too much...'
What are you doing?
Don't you ever think
what your family and parents will go through if you did this?
How will they live without you?
- This is wrong. - Sir, I am feeling stressed.
Where do you live?
In the maswani area.
Come on, let me drop you.
Please have faith in me, I'm like your father.
Come.
Why were you taking such an extreme step?
I want to put an end to the 'triple talaq' law.
What's the reason?
My husband divorced me using the 'triple talaq' law.
None of the lawyers are ready to fight my case.
The place at which you were standing today,
another girl had jumped off
and committed suicide from the same place
a few years ago.
Her husband also had divorced her using the 'triple talaq' law.
Over the phone.
I remember that video.
Please stop right here. My house is nearby. - No...
- Pratap, take the car up to her house. - Yes, sir.
Child...
It's getting late. Go home now.
- Sir, I have to clean still. - I'll do it.
- Please go. - Okay, sir.
Madam.
I've brought your favourite flowers.
'Zahid has divorced me.'
'He was saying that he's in love with someone else.'
'I don't want to live anymore.'
- 'Goodbye. - No...'
No...
You will get a lawyer today.
Ramzan Qadir? The lawyer from the Supreme Court?
Will she fight my case?
Come inside.
Come.
This Ramzan Qadir
can fight your case.
Are you Ramzan Qadir?
You made me
open my closed office.
Together, we will fight the 'triple talaq' case
Can I fight it?
No lawyer in the city is ready to accept my case.
Even my family is unable to help me.
Why do you want to help me?
Remember I told you,
that I couldn't save that girl.
'Your Lordship,'
'There are no witnesses or proof against my client.'
'I request'
'that my client be honourably acquitted.'
'Mr Ramzan, you easily convince the law.'
'The game of law is all about full stops and commas. - Yes.'
'Sometimes here and sometimes there.'
- 'Congratulations. - I've a missed call from my daughter.'
'Okay.'
'Why is her phone switched off?'
'Chanda, try from the other number.'
'What are you doing here? You should...'
'I had sent you to the High Court.'
'What's the matter?'
'I had sent you on some work. You also...'
'What's happening?'
'Why are you standing like a statue?'
'I told you to call my daughter.'
'I said to call my daughter.'
'Call her.'
'Dad, Zahid has divorced me.'
'He was saying that he's in love with someone else.'
- 'Shabnam. - He divorced me over the phone.'
- 'Where are you, Shabnam? - I have made a huge mistake.'
'So what? It... That... It doesn't matter.'
'I'm here with you. Everything will be fine.'
- 'I don't want to live. - No, Shabnam.'
'Suicide is forbidden as per Islam.'
'Don't do all this.'
'Your Mom won't be able to bear this.'
'How will I live?'
- 'Goodbye. - No, my dear.'
'Please save my daughter.'
Ramzan Qadir, who helped many people get justice
couldn't help his daughter get justice.
Because of this shock,
Shabnam's mother
slipped into a partial coma.
I also gave up my practice.
I am woken up by these nightmares every night.
I wish...
I could have...
saved her.
Even if it was in my dreams.
My daughter lost.
But you are fighting.
You're fighting against injustice.
Both of us will help every daughter
and sister in the society, get justice.
Yes, Mr Rawat. Okay.
- Mr Khan. - Hmm.
She's found a lawyer.
- Who is fighting the case? - Uh... His name is Ramzan Qadir.
Ramzan Qadir.
He had given up practice, right? Will he be able to fight?
It's not a wrestling match.
Rahman, I know Zainab very well.
She's very stubborn. She won't stop at this.
Don't worry, Hanif. I will make some arrangements.
- 'Traitors of Islam - Pelt them with stones.'
Hey... they're going towards our house.
'Traitors of Islam - Pelt them with stones.' - Hey. Stop.
'Traitors of Islam - Pelt them with stones.' - Stop. Wait.
Traitors of Islam - Pelt them with stones. - Please wait.
Where do you think you're going?
We will stand here and protest today.
But what is the matter? Why are you protesting outside our house?
Ask your sister. Call Zainab outside.
- Dad... - You'll find out everything right now.
We are going to protest here, until she comes out.
- Zainab. - Down, down.
- Zainab. - Down, down. - Please calm down.
Please calm down.
I'm Zainab. What is the matter?
You're bringing a disgrace to our religion.
What have I done?
You're fighting against the 'triple talaq' law.
Yes, I am.
What is your problem with it?
This brings a bad name to our religion.
That's great.
A man uses the 'triple talaq' law and throws his wife out of the house.
Does that not bring a disgrace to our religion?
He gives a divorce for trivial issues like excess salt in the food,
or for not giving a head massage.
Don't these things bring a bad name to our religion?
How will you feel if your husband writes a letter to you with the 'triple talaq'
saying he's divorcing you?
Or if he calls you over the phone
and says he divorcing you, then how will you feel?
This war is not just for me.
I'm fighting this war for all of you.
Whatever happened to me is now done and dusted.
Think about yourself.
I'm fighting this war for the daughters and sisters of society.
For your daughters.
I'm fighting for them, for their future.
'Zainab Sheikh from Dehradun'
'filed a case against the 'triple talaq' law in the Supreme Court.'
'Muslim women from all over the country are standing with Zainab Sheikh.'
'But, will the 'Muslim Personal Law Board'
'and other organisations have any objection to this?'
'On one hand, usage of the 'triple talaq' law'
'is increasing by the day,'
'on the other hand, Muslim and non-Muslim women from across the country'
'are supporting this. It is becoming a matter of concern for Muslim leaders.'
- 'Hello.' - Is this Qazi Hassan Baig?
- I'm Qazi Hassan Baig. - Greetings.
Greetings.
Why are you protesting against the Muslim laws?
Qazi sir, I'm not opposing anything.
I read the Quran and observe fasts during Ramadan.
And I also try to offer 'namaz' regularly.
I have faith in Islam as much as you have in it.
I was born a Muslim,
and with God's grace, I will die a Muslim.
Then why are you fighting this case?
Because during the wedding, the woman is asked
if she has agreed to the wedding or not.
Qazi sir, not once, but she is asked thrice.
But she is not asked for her opinion during a divorce.
This means that only a man has the right to divorce.
- Does a woman not have the right? - Of course, she does.
If a woman wants a divorce she can opt for 'khula.'
Even in the case of a 'khula,' she has to beg her husband for divorce.
She gets a divorce only after the man says 'talaq' three times.
So, do you want women also to have the right of 'triple talaq?'
No, Qazi sir.
I just want to stop men from misusing the 'triple talaq' law.
Whether it's a man who's giving the divorce, or the woman
it's the family that suffers, in the end.
My child, your arguments are right.
May Almighty bless you.
Rahman, you were saying that your women are very strong.
And that you have faith in the Qazi.
It's not as easy as it sounds, Hanif.
I am answerable to my superiors. It's my responsibility.
I cannot openly protest in this case.
You cannot protest, right? But I can do it.
Give me your men. I will do the rest.
- Babban, see what can be done. - Hmm.
Listen to me. Withdraw the case.
This is what is best for you. I hope you understand me.
Take the compensation and close the matter. - What?
If you agree, then I'll try to increase the amount.
Otherwise, these people will not spare you, Zainab.
Hey, Uncle.
You won't get a place to be buried in any graveyard in India.
- Mr Ashfaq, please come here. - Hello, Mr Rayees.
- I'll be right back. - Okay.
- Please come in, Mr Rayees. - No, come here.
- Greetings, Mr Rayees. - Greetings.
- What can I get for you? Tea or coffee? - Neither. Please empty the shop.
What?
But we have an agreement of five years. And I have completed just two years.
I have brought your deposit.
Please empty the shop, I want to sell it. - Please sell it to me.
I will buy it.
Mr Rayees, this shop has been lucky for me.
Can't you understand what I'm saying?
- Have I made a mistake? - You have not made any mistake.
Your sister is the one who's making a mistake. Please stop her.
- 'Is this Samad Sheikh?' - Yes.
'Tell your daughter to withdraw the case.'
'Otherwise, the consequences will not be good.'
Hello. Who is speaking?
- What happened, dad? - What were they saying?
- He was threatening me. - Dad.
We must speak to Zainab.
Why is it our responsibility to improve society.
Ashfaq is right, Dad. Today, a car came and stopped close to me.
I was threatened on the street.
We are not the kind who fight and argue. Look at her condition.
Dad, please tell Zainab.
What is it, Ashfaq?
- Huh? - Zainab.
We are getting threatening calls.
Please withdraw the case.
No, Dad.
Millions of eyes are watching us.
If I withdraw the case today,
then no woman will be able to raise her voice against abuse.
Zainab, you're right.
But those people are very dangerous.
What if something happens to you?
Yes, Zainab. Mother is right.
If I stay here, all your lives will be in danger.
Are you crazy?
- Mom, Dad... - Ashfaq.
- Careful. - What's happening?
- Mom. - What is this?
- Mom. - Help.
Ashfaq.
Ashfaq. What happened?
'Last night there was an attack on Zainab's house.'
'The business community in Dehradun is very unhappy with this incident.'
'They have decided to keep the market closed for two days.'
'Women have taken to the streets to show their support to Zainab.'
- 'Long live - Zainab Sheikh.'
Where is Zainab?
I knocked on her door, father. But she did not open the door.
Zainab.
- What happened? - Have you seen Zainab?
She's not here.
- Ashfaq. - Yes, Dad.
- Are Zainab and Ayesha upstairs? - Zainab is not upstairs.
Where have they gone?
- Yes, Babban. - Zainab is missing from her house.
You're looking for her in the wrong place.
If you want to find her, look for Ramzan Qadir.
- Give me chocolates. - Yes, sir.
- Hurry up. - Yes, sir.
Ayesha.
- You'll fall, Ayesha. - No, mom. I won't fall.
- Where are you going? - Yes...
It's a new place. Maybe you were not able to sleep well.
No, that's not the case.
It's a very beautiful house.
I had built it for Shabnam.
Anyway.
Please don't hesitate
to tell me, if you need anything.
Okay. Thank you.
- Greetings. - Greetings.
- Hello. - Hanif, at any cost
please stop Zainab from going to the court.
Mom, what happened?
Listen to what your brother-in-law is saying.
He's saying that he will divorce Haseena. Please stop her.
'Ramzan Qadir.'
'UK 07 5700.'
'You're taking Zainab in this car and going to Delhi, aren't you?'
'We will blast your car.'
'Will you blast my car, with Zainab in it?'
'Don't make a mistake.'
'Because I'm not going in my car. I'm hiring an Innova car.'
'Note the number, UK 07 TC 1914.'
- Greetings. - Greetings.
Come on, hurry up.
- 'The car has left. - Keep a watch.'
'All the vehicles have the same number plate. - What?'
'What nonsense are you talking about?'
- 'They've crossed the signal. - Follow them.'
'I don't know which car to follow.'
Let us begin the proceedings for today.
Today's first application
is by Zainab Sheikh. She's filed a case against Mohammed Hanif Qureshi,
Government of India and Muslim Personal Law Board.
Is Zainab Sheikh present here?
Who is representing you?
- Mr Ramzan Qadir. - Oh.
It's nice to see a senior counsel like you
return to our fraternity.
It's good that you started working again.
Thank you, Your Lordship.
Your Lordship, my client
is a resident of Dehradun, Uttarakhand.
She got married in 2011,
to a resident of Ghaziabad,
Mohammed Hanif Qureshi.
Since she belonged to a poor family
she had to listen to taunts every day after her marriage to Hanif.
When they found out that she was pregnant with a girl
her in-laws got her aborted without informing Zainab.
Please note that, this happened not once but twice.
When she complained to her husband about this abortion
she was brutally beaten up and thrown out of the house.
After a few days, she received a letter via speed post.
Please note, she was divorced via speed post.
On behalf of my client, I request the Honourable Supreme Court
that the law that allows 'talaq-e-biddat,' 'nikah halala,'
and the rights of Muslim men to have four wives,
be abolished.
Because it is a one-sided law.
It abuses a woman's right
to equality and fundamental rights.
Thank you, Your Lordship.
The court accepts Zainab's application.
The court will appoint a bench of five judges
who will give their opinion after discussing among themselves.
In this case,
the Court will also appoint an amicus curiae.
Since this matter is connected with religion
their knowledge with the religious matters
will be of help to the court.
But the court will not discuss
about 'halala' and a Muslim man's right to have four wives.
'It's a landmark day in the lives of Muslim women'
'Petitions on three matters have been accepted. - Today is a great day.'
- Sir... - Ma'am, please tell us.
'Ma'am, your petition has been accepted. What do you have to say about this?'
'How are you feeling?'
'I think the problems and difficulties faced by millions of women like me'
'will be seen by the people and the Government.'
Sir, according to you what verdict will the Court arrive at?
Everyone fights to win. But it's too early to say anything.
- 'Sir... - One more question, sir...'
'This time, our delegation has personally'
'met the Honourable Prime Minister.'
'And we have made him aware of our problem.'
'Mr Hidayat Khan has been appointed'
'to take a stand for Muslim Personal Law Board.'
'Mr Hidayat Khan'
'has not lost any case in the Supreme Court.'
'We have to wait and watch what the result of the war'
'between Ramzan Qadir and Hidayat Khan will be.'
'Tomorrow is the first day of the hearing.'
Everyone's eyes are set on the Supreme Court.
Because today, the plaintiff and the defendant will present their stand.
Mr Hanif, what do you have to say about the 'triple talaq' law.
What's there to say? The matter is in the court. I will accept the verdict.
Mr Ramzan, you can begin your proceedings.
Thank you, Your Lordship.
Your Lordship.
Muslim Personal Law, also known as 'Shariat,'
Article Act 1937,
does not approve of the 'triple talaq' law.
'Fori Talaq' has not been mentioned in the Quran.
Divorce is permitted as per the Quran.
Only if the claim is reasonable.
Or if every attempt at reconciling has failed.
'Nikah halala' and 'triple talaq,'
are not necessary rituals in Islam.
That is why many Muslim countries
has abolished these laws.
I request the Honourable Court
to put an end to the 'triple talaq' law.
Thank you, Your Lordship.
Respondent.
Your Lordship.
The 'triple talaq' law
comes under the jurisdiction of 'Muslim Personal Law Board.'
The 'Muslim Personal Law Board' was formed
so that Muslims could conduct the ceremonies and weddings
as per the Islamic rules mentioned in the 'Shariat.'
The 'Muslim Personal Law Board'
provides Muslims with
freedom of religion.
According to me,
changing rules like 'triple talaq', 'nikah' and 'halala'
would mean
hurting the religious freedom of Muslims.
Under the name of religious freedom
we cannot do injustice to Muslim women.
Your Lordship.
Laws such as 'triple talaq,' 'nikah' and 'halala,'
are being followed for the last 1400 years.
This means that there is no problem with these laws.
Your Lordship.
This custom is not being followed for the last 1400 years.
We were making do with it.
For our own selfish needs.
And if,
this custom has been there for 1400 years, it does not mean
that it is right.
Sati System, which was followed by Hindus
has been abolished after passing a law.
'Fori talaq' was not right at that time
and it is not right in today's time, either.
Your Lordship.
I would like to remind my capable friend
that if these laws will be abolished
then this will be a wound on Muslims' freedom of religion.
Your Lordship.
My capable friend is saying
that this will be a wound
on the freedom of religion on the Muslim Minority.
I would like to remind him
that even Muslim women
are a part of this Muslim minority committee.
Which itself is a minority.
He's talking about taking away
their right to equality.
The rights
that are available to women in other religions
why can't Muslim women have the same rights?
Why are they being deprived?
Your Lordship.
If there is a problem or inconvenience because of this law
then we can bring a slight change in the law
and give freedom to Muslim women.
For example,
when the Marriage Certificate is made
then, the lady can write that she should not be given
'triple talaq.'
That's all.
If a small change can be brought here,
and the problem can be solved,
then what is the need to abolish the law?
That's it, Your Lordship.
Your Lordship.
'I will not be given the 'triple talaq.'
If a small change can bring about a revolution
then why not? Great.
Your Lordship.
May I ask a few questions to my capable friend?
Permitted.
- Mr Hidayat. - Yes?
- Do you have a daughter? - By God's grace, yes.
She must be bowing down to you.
Yes, of course
she does because Islam
teaches that we have to bow down to our elders.
You're absolutely right.
Now, tell me,
a girl who has learnt to bow down from when she was young,
how will she say in front of her elders and parents
that she wants
the Marriage Certificate to include the clause
that she does not accept 'fori triple talaq?'
Will she be able to say it?
No, she won't.
Because
the literacy rate of women in our country
is approximately
51.9 per cent.
And the society in which
everything goes according to a man's wish
who will allow them
to include this clause?
Your Lordship, that is why I request you
to please do away with this law.
This will be the biggest justice for all Muslim women.
What is the connection between literacy rate with freedom of religion?
Mr Hidayat, does Allah become happy?
- Yes, of course. - What is your stand for it?
Stand?
There is an event.
And you must be aware, according to this event
Huzur Salalahu Alayhi Wasallam narrates that
when Allah is happy, it rains.
And when he is even more happy, you are blessed with guests.
When he is most happy, you are blessed with a daughter.
I would like to bring another event to your notice.
Yes.
Nabi Pak Salalahu Alayhi Wasallam says
Yes...
that the better man among us
is the one who works for the betterment
of his wife and daughters.
Of course.
- Am I right? - Yes.
That is why
it is important to scrap this law.
So that it will lead to the betterment
of our sisters and daughters.
But, Your Lordship.
By ending the 'triple talaq' law
will leave the Muslim population of the country very unhappy.
Muslim!
Which Muslim?
The one who has 'Musalsal Iman'
is a true Muslim.
The one who has complete faith, is a true Muslim.
Is there anyone among us
who can rightfully say, that they are true Muslims?
Mr Hidayat.
The time has come,
to introspect and question ourselves
if we are true to our faith.
Your Lordship.
Drinking liquor is banned in Islam.
But it is legal to divorce your wife when you are intoxicated.
Islam does not allow one to get angry.
But it is legal to give a divorce in a fit of anger.
Among all the banned actions, Allah does not approve
only talaq.
It shakes the entire system.
In Islam, women
are given a very high position. But, here
a girl was divorced just because the husband was angry.
She was left homeless.
She was made to go from pillar to post.
Our Nabi Pak Salalahu Alayhi Wasallam
would stand up in respect
not just when another woman would come
but also when his daughter would enter the room.
This is Islam.
Our Nabi's life is an example
for how to lead a pure and clean life.
An example for all of us.
What are we doing? Where are we going?
Your Lordship.
I will accept whatever verdict the court decides.
But the time has come
for all Muslims to decide
which Islam we want.
The Islam that is modified
Or the Islam that was followed
by Nabi Pak Salalahu Alayhi Wasallam?
Our eternal carer, Allah's Islam.
We have to decide.
Thank you, Your Lordship.
The five judges have reached the Supreme Court.
'We could see a historic judgment regarding 'triple talaq.'
Keeping in mind all the facts and evidence
and after listening to the sides of all the parties
the five-judge bench of our court
with a ratio of 3:2 has come to the conclusion
that the 'triple talaq' law
should be abolished.
- Long live. - Zainab Sheikh.
And
instructs the Government of India
that the Bill for abolishing the 'triple talaq' law
should be presented in the Parliament as soon as possible.
It also instructs the Muslim Personal Law Board
that until this bill does not get passed in the Parliament
until then, a clause for non-acceptance of 'triple talaq,'
be included in the Marriage Certificate during the wedding.
'Zainab Sheikh from Dehradun'
'has finally won her battle.'
'Under the Prime Minister's guidance, the Government of India,'
'has passed the law against using 'triple talaq'
'in the parliament, without further delay'
'and by keeping it away from politics.'
'In order to make this is a punishable offence,'
'The government is soon going to pass a Bill.'
'This will ensure a drop'
'in the number of 'triple talaq' cases.
'This law from the Government of India'
'is a very big boon for the Muslim women.'