Property and Financial Rights
- A wife's income and property are entirely her own — her husband has no claim on them
- She is not legally required to contribute to household expenses (though she may choose to)
- Her mahr is her property — not her family's, not her husband's
- She has full inheritance rights defined in the Quran
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is illegal in Pakistan under the Protection of Women Against Violence Act 2016 (Punjab) and equivalent provincial laws. Options for women experiencing violence:
- Dastak Charitable Trust — Lahore: 042-35761999
- Panah Shelter — Karachi: 021-35124632
- Women's Aid Trust — Karachi
- Rozan Counseling — Islamabad: 051-2204356
- 1099 — Punjab Violence Against Women helpline
Forced Marriage
A nikah without the free, genuine consent of both parties is invalid under Islamic law and illegal under Pakistani law. The Offence of Forced Marriage Act 2024 criminalises forced marriage in Pakistan. If you are in a forced marriage or at risk of one — you have legal and Islamic rights.
Divorce Rights
A wife has the right to seek khula (divorce) through the courts. No man can prevent her. See our divorce guide for full details. You do not need his permission to file for khula — you need a Family Court.
Child Custody
Mothers generally retain custody of young children after divorce. Courts determine custody based on the child's best interests. A mother does not automatically lose custody by remarrying (contrary to common belief).
Harassment at Work and in Public
Sexual harassment at work is prohibited under the Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act 2010. File a complaint with your organisation's Ombudsperson or directly with the Federal Ombudsman for Protection Against Harassment.