Abstract:
The prevalence of divorce has been increased among Muslim Community in Sri Lanka.
This study was conducted among 80 divorcees to identify the causes of divorce,
consequences of divorce among divorcees and role of Quazi (Islamic Judge) in Muslim
divorce case with special reference to Akkaraipattu DS division. Primary data was
collected through interviews and observation. Secondary data was gained through Quazi
Court (Islamic Court) records, DS office records, reports, religious books (AlQuran and
Al-Hadees), journals, articles, and website. Collected data were analysed by using
qualitative and quantitative methods and presented in text, tables and graphs to get the
descriptive outcome in an appropriate and attractive manner.
The study explored that, Early age marriage, Unemployment, Poverty, Low
income, Alcohol addiction, Quarrels and arguments, Secularization trends, Low
religiosity, Inadequacies in divorce laws and Poor qualities of Quazi (Islamic Judge) are
the demographic, economic, behavioural, cultural and legal factors which
contributed to more divorces among Muslims. The study focused the consequences of
divorce among divorced couples. Both divorced men and women face difficulties after
their divorce. Stress, economic burden, family responsibility, child rearing, depression
and not interested in remarriage are the negative consequences faced by divorced
women. Divorced men also impact emotionally and socially. Loss of social recognition,
aggressive, loneliness and guilty feeling are some of it. Freedom, peaceful environment,
another chance to lead a better life and release from marital stress are the positive
consequences of divorce. Negative outcomes of divorce is severe than positive
outcomes, especially among divorced women. The study also talked about the role of
Quazi (Islamic Judge). We can observe a shift in Muslim Community through this rapid
growth of divorce towards modernization; it definitely destructs the basic social
Copyright © ICSUSL-Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka 2017 786
institution family. Immediate actions are essential to address this social issue to preserve
the marriage and family life.
