The Union Cabinet on Friday cleared a bill that proposes to criminalise the practice of triple talaq, ANI reported. Muslim men are allowed to instantly divorce their wives by simply pronouncing “talaq”, meaning divorce, three times.

Under the proposed law, a woman divorced by her husband in such a manner can approach a magistrate seeking “subsistence allowance” for herself and her children if they are minors. Men who violate the law would also face three years in prison.

Members of Parliament are expected to vote on the bill during the ongoing winter session.

All India Muslim Women Personal Law Board member Shaista Ambar welcomed the government’s decision. “Unlike previous governments, this government cares for the rights of Muslim women,” she said. “[I] appeal to all parties to ensure passage of this bill in Parliament.”

The Supreme Court had on August 22 struck down triple talaq, calling the Islamic practice unconstitutional and in violation of Article 14 of the Constitution, which provides for equality before the law.