The Lahore High Court (LHC) has once again made headlines with a decision emphasizing the importance of women’s rights in marriage. In a recent case, Justice Farooq Haider allowed a woman who married of her own free will to remain with her husband while also ensuring her financial security by ordering an increase in her dower amount (haq mehr) from $1,000 to $10,000.

The case was brought to the court through a habeas corpus petition filed by the woman’s father, claiming she was in illegal custody. However, the woman stood firm in her testimony, affirming that her marriage was of her own volition. The court acknowledged her autonomy and emphasized the significance of financial security in marriage.

Justice Haider questioned the groom about his monthly income, which was $2,000 from his job in the United States. The judge deemed the initial dower insufficient and ordered its enhancement, ensuring the bride’s rights were adequately protected. The groom submitted an affidavit agreeing to the increase, and the case was subsequently resolved.

This decision is not only a legal milestone but also a message of empowerment for women, reminding society of the importance of financial independence and security within marital contracts.

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