Alina
MLC Proposes English in Nikahnamas
MLC Amer Ali Khan Proposes English in Nikahnamas
Telangana Member of Legislative Council (MLC) Amer Ali Khan has proposed an important reform aimed at improving transparency and protecting members of the Muslim community from exploitation. He has requested the Telangana State Waqf Board to include marriage details in English, in addition to Urdu, in the Nikahnama (marriage contract). This proposal addresses issues faced by individuals applying for passports and visas, who are often charged exorbitant fees for translation services by brokers.
Proposal to Add English to Nikahnamas
On Thursday, October 10, MLC Amer Ali Khan formally wrote to the chairman of the Telangana State Waqf Board, Syed Azmatullah Hussaini, suggesting that Nikahnamas—marriage certificates used by the Muslim community—should include a version in English. Currently, these certificates are written only in Urdu, which can present challenges for individuals unfamiliar with the language. MLC Khan emphasized that incorporating English into the certificates would alleviate difficulties faced by people when submitting their marriage documents for legal or travel-related purposes.
In his petition, MLC Khan raised concerns about the growing problem of brokers and middlemen exploiting people by charging large sums of money to translate their marriage certificates into English. He explained that many individuals face hurdles in situations such as passport or visa applications, where English versions of marriage documents are required. The lack of English documentation has resulted in significant financial exploitation, with individuals being forced to rely on third-party translators.
Addressing the Issue of Exploitation
The primary motivation behind MLC Amer Ali Khan’s proposal is to protect the community from the financial burden imposed by brokers who charge for translation services. In his statement, Khan explained how the absence of an English version in Nikahnamas has opened up opportunities for middlemen to exploit couples.
“To address this, I suggest adding a separate page to the existing Nikahnama, containing complete details such as the date of marriage, names of the groom and bride, and other relevant particulars in English,” MLC Khan stated. This simple but effective addition would reduce the need for paid translation services and ensure that the Nikahnamas are more accessible to everyone, especially non-Urdu speakers.
Enhancing Transparency for Married Couples
Another key benefit of incorporating English in Nikahnamas is improving the understanding of the marriage contract for individuals who do not read or write Urdu. MLC Amer Ali Khan emphasized the importance of transparency and ensuring that all parties involved fully comprehend the terms of their marriage agreement. Many couples who enter into a Nikah may not be fluent in Urdu, which could potentially lead to misunderstandings regarding the terms of the contract.
“Implementing this proposal quickly and effectively will not only enhance transparency but also protect community members from financial exploitation,” MLC Amer Ali Khan explained. By providing an English version of the marriage certificate, couples will have a clear understanding of their marriage details and avoid any confusion that could arise from relying solely on Urdu documentation.
Supporting Community Interests
MLC Amer Ali Khan’s initiative reflects his commitment to serving the interests of the community. His proposal aligns with broader efforts to make official documentation more accessible and inclusive. In the context of today’s globalized world, where many people travel or seek to settle abroad, having marriage records available in both Urdu and English is not just a convenience but a necessity.
The proposed changes would benefit not only those applying for passports or visas but also anyone who may need to present their marriage documents in a variety of contexts, such as legal matters or administrative procedures. With English being a widely spoken and recognized language, the addition of this version to the Nikahnama would simplify processes for thousands of people across Telangana and beyond.
Next Steps and Expected Outcomes
The Telangana State Waqf Board is expected to consider the proposal from MLC Amer Ali Khan and decide on the most appropriate steps for implementation. If adopted, this reform could be rolled out across the state, benefiting a large number of individuals. The process would likely involve updating the Nikahnama template to include a supplementary page with the relevant marriage details in English.
This initiative is not only a step towards protecting the community from exploitation but also a move toward modernization and inclusivity in official documentation. By making Nikahnamas bilingual, the state would be fostering a more accessible and transparent system that works in the best interests of the public.
Disclaimer:
This article provides information based on publicly available reports regarding MLC Amer Ali Khan’s proposal to include English in Nikahnamas. The content is for informational purposes only.
