MAINTENANCE CLAIM; CHALLENGES FACED BY WOMEN UNDER MUSLIM FAMILY LAWS IN PAKISTAN: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

This research analyzes the challenges women in Pakistan face in obtaining maintenance under Islamic personal law. It examines the role of socio-cultural standards and norms, the financial concealment of wives, delays in procedures, and the inefficiency of enforcement mechanisms as obstacles to women seeking equitable and appropriate support. The paper examines statutory provisions, such as the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance 1961 and the Family Courts Act 1964, to assess their contribution in protecting the right to maintenance. It also explains the existence of systemic barriers that disproportionately affect women, particularly in rural areas. To achieve equitable maintenance outcomes in Pakistan, it is necessary to enhance enforcement procedures, reform income-verification mechanisms, and broaden legal awareness. Such reforms would assist in closing the institutional gaps, strengthen women's financial security, encourage access to justice, and ensure that Islamic legal principles of fairness and responsibility can be put into practice.