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In Pakistan, under Islamic law and the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance, 1961, The Maintenance of Wife or maintenance of spouse is a legal right she has from her husband during marriage and, in certain cases, after divorce.
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The maintenance of wife is a vital right under Islamic law and Pakistani family law, ensuring that a wife receives financial support from her husband, both during marriage and, in some circumstances, after divorce. This obligation is rooted in the belief that a husband is responsible for supporting his wife financially to maintain her dignity, well-being, and quality of life.
In Pakistan, the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance, 1961, and the Code of Civil Procedure govern the maintenance rights of a wife. Under Islamic law, a husband is responsible for providing his maintenance of spouse with financial support, including food, shelter, clothing, medical care, and other basic necessities, as long as they are living together in marriage. This obligation is based on the Quranic principle that men are the providers for women in marriage.
Under Islamic law and Pakistani family law, the husband has a legal obligation to provide for his wife during the course of their marriage. This includes all her daily needs, including food, clothing, shelter, and other living expenses. The wife is entitled to be maintained regardless of her personal wealth or income.
The amount of maintenance depends on the husband’s financial ability, the wife’s standard of living, and her needs. It’s important that maintenance be reasonable and reflect the lifestyle the wife is accustomed to.
A maintenance of spouse is entitled to maintenance from her husband even after the divorce, particularly during the iddat period (a waiting period after divorce, typically three menstrual cycles). During this period, the husband must provide for her basic needs, as the wife may not have remarried yet.
The maintenance during this period ensures that the spouse is not left vulnerable while she awaits the possibility of remarriage.
After the iddat period, if the wife has not remarried, she may still be entitled to maintenance if she is unable to support herself financially. This maintenance is typically applicable in cases where the wife is unable to meet her own needs due to illness, disability, or other valid reasons.
If the wife has custody of the children after divorce, she may also be entitled to receive maintenance for their care, including educational and medical expenses.
If the husband is separated from his wife but not divorced, the wife still retains the right to maintenance. The separation does not negate her right to financial support, and the husband is still responsible for providing for her needs.
If the husband fails to provide the ordered of maintenance of spouse, the wife has the right to seek enforcement through the courts. There are legal avenues available, including garnishing the husband’s salary, seizing assets, or other legal remedies to ensure that the maintenance is paid. The court can also issue an arrest warrant if the husband refuses to comply with the maintenance order.
Maintenance orders are subject to change if there is a significant change in circumstances. If the husband’s income increases or decreases, or if the wife’s needs change (e.g., due to health issues), the wife can request a modification of the maintenance order through the court.
If the wife’s financial situation becomes more difficult or her needs increase (e.g., due to health issues), she can request an increase in the amount of maintenance.
If the wife is able to financially support herself or there is a change in her situation, the husband can request a reduction in the amount of maintenance.
If a wife is not receiving the financial support she is entitled to, she can file a maintenance petition in the Family Court. The court will consider factors such as the husband’s income, the wife’s needs, and the overall circumstances before issuing a maintenance order. In cases of non-compliance, the court can issue enforceable directives to ensure the maintenance is paid.
Maintenance is not only a legal right but also a moral responsibility. It reflects the husband’s duty to care for his wife, ensuring she can live with dignity and without financial distress.
Ensuring that a wife receives maintenance allows her to have financial independence, which can support her emotional well-being and overall quality of life.
The provision of maintenance protects women from exploitation and ensures they are not left vulnerable or financially dependent after a separation or divorce.
We are committed to ensuring that every woman receives the maintenance she is entitled to, empowering her to lead a secure and dignified life.