Regarding Verbal Divorce (Talaq)

[Yasir_pk]

Assalamualaikum brothers and sisters,


I have a query regarding divorce.


1) 10 years ago, I was in a relationship with a girl. As we were determined at that moment to get married, so to avoid sin, we got married within a year (i.e. 9 years ago). As our ages were under 20 at that time, so we did not have any paperwork againist our marriage (as we were not eligible to marry according to the local law). We just followed the Muslim rules (where having paperwork is not mandatory so far I know)


2) However, 3 years ago, due to some reasons, we got separated. She was involved in a relationship with a non-muslim guy since then and still continuing it. On the other hand, I remained single and focused on my academic works. During that last 4 year, we didn't contact each other as our mutual relationship severely deteriorated at the time of separtation (which is still the case).


3) During our separation, I didn't divorce her verbally. But she denied the marriage as it doesn't have any paperwork and she even refused to take the dowry. Right now, I am going to marry someone else and I have the following questions in my mind:


>> Do I need to divorce her verbally as she is already in a relationship with a non-muslim guy for more than 3 years and as we dont have contact with each other since separation? I dont have any contact info of her right now. So it's very difficult for me to contact her back and verbally divorce her.


I would be very much greatful if someone could give me some advise based on our religious rules. Thanks.

[sudoku]

Your marriage with her is still intact. You need to give her three divorces. You can simply do that by verbally uttering them. There is no requirement for her to be there or for any paperwork. As a measure of caution, have two witnesses while uttering the talaaq.

Her having a relationship has no bearing on the issue.

[Yasir_pk]

Hi Soduko,

Thank you very much for your reply. Actually, there is another problem for me. We did not disclose about our marriage. So, I have two questions right now on the context of your reply.

1) Is it a mandatory requirement to keep two witnesses while uttering the talaq?

2) Is there any problem if I marry one of the witnesses later on?

Thanks once again. I really appreciate your prompt response.