The Role of Muslim Family Law Ordinance 1961 in Protecting the Rights of Women, Case Studies from Mardan District

Abstract

Spouses have several obligations over one another. In a marriage, the husband has rights over his wife and the wife has rights over her husband. Among these rights, the right of maintenance of wives is one of the most important. Numerous laws are there to protect the right of maintenance for wives. The Muslim family law ordinance of 1961 is one such law that ensures that women are treated fairly. Moreover, Islam also provides an explanation for the rights of partners in an Islamic marriage. If the terms of marriage declared at the time of Nikah are not satisfied, then the wife has the authority to seek help. Islam even gives women the right to get a divorce, if she is not treated or if her needs and rights are not satisfied. It is the foremost duty of husbands to look after their wives. They are accountable for giving them mental and physical support as well as financial support. Therefore, it is evident how much importance women have in Islam and how important maintenance is for Muslim women.