The LHC has ruled that dower (Haq Mehr) must be paid whenever the wife demands it, if no time is specified. The judgment clarifies an important legal issue in family matters across Pakistan.
The decision was issued by Justice Abid Hussain Chattha of the Lahore High Court. The case was filed by Fatima Bibi, who sought maintenance, dowry, and dower equal to five tolas of gold.
The LHC found that denying the dower claim in earlier proceedings was not legally correct. It set aside the flawed decision and restored the petitioner’s right to receive her Mehr.
Earlier, a family court had ordered the husband to pay Rs. 5,000 per month as maintenance. It also allowed the dower claim but rejected the request for dowry. Both parties later challenged the verdict before an appellate court.
The appellate court upheld the maintenance order. It also partly accepted the dowry claim, allowing either specific items or Rs. 250,000. However, it rejected the claim for dower, which led the petitioner to approach the LHC.
After reviewing the case, the LHC upheld the decisions related to maintenance and dowry. At the same time, it ruled that the dismissal of the dower claim was incorrect. The court restored the original order that granted Mehr to the wife.
The judgment clearly states that when no time is fixed for dower payment, it becomes payable on demand. This means the husband is legally bound to pay it whenever the wife asks for it.
Legal experts say this LHC ruling will serve as an important precedent. It strengthens the protection of women’s financial rights in marriage contracts. It also provides clarity for courts handling similar disputes in the future.
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The decision highlights the importance of clearly stating terms in marriage agreements. At the same time, it ensures that the absence of such details does not harm the wife’s legal rights.
