I am a Muslim woman in Kurnool and my husband has given talaq through a family arbitration but I am unsure of its validity, what should I check?

Detailed Legal Analysis

Talaq through arbitration, known as talaq-e-tafwid or delegated talaq, is valid if it is based on an agreement between the spouses delegating the power of talaq. In Kurnool, you must verify whether your marriage contract contained a clause delegating the power of talaq to you or to arbitrators.

The Andhra Pradesh High Court has recognised delegated talaq if exercised strictly within the terms of the delegation. Andhra Pradesh Rent Control Act 1960 may require registration of the divorce with the local registrar for evidentiary purposes.

You should obtain a copy of the arbitration proceedings and the talaqnama to confirm its validity. The talaq must be communicated to you in writing and the iddat period must be observed.

You are entitled to maintenance during the iddat period and to return of your dower. If you have doubts about the validity, you can file a suit for a declaration before the family court.