A contentious bill that makes instant triple talaq a criminal offence and provides for a jail term to a Muslim man for the crime, was passed in Rajya Sabha. The bill will now go to President for his nod, following which the practice of instant divorce among Muslims will be outlawed. Moving the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2019 in the Upper House, Law minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said the proposed legislation should be not seen through a political prism or vote bank politics, as it aims at ensuring gender dignity, justice and equality. The triple talaq bill was passed with 99 'Ayes', and 84 'Noes' following the support of Biju Janata Dal. BJP allies - Janata Dal (United) and All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) - had staged a walkout during the discussion on the Bill.