Groom Ordered to Increase Dower: Lahore High Court Ruling
In a landmark decision, the Lahore High Court (LHC) has ruled that a groom should increase the dower (haq mehr) from $1,000 to $10,000. The court’s order came after a woman, who married of her own free will, appeared in court with her husband. Despite a habeas corpus petition filed by her father, the court sided with the woman’s wishes, but not before instructing the groom to raise the dower amount. The ruling emphasizes both the autonomy of the woman in choosing her partner and the importance of financial security in marriage.
Court Orders
The case began when the woman’s father sought her recovery from what he claimed was an illegal custody situation with her husband. When the couple appeared before the court, the woman made it clear that she was an adult and had married of her own free will. Denying any accusations of abduction or coercion, she stood firm in her desire to remain with her husband. The court then focused on the financial aspect of the marriage, specifically the groom’s dower commitment. Upon hearing the groom’s monthly income of $2,000 from his job in the United States, Justice Farooq Haider expressed concern over the original dower amount. The judge pointed out that $1,000 was insufficient, given the groom’s substantial earnings, and instructed him to increase the dower to $10,000. This decision was aimed at ensuring the woman’s security and well-being in her marriage.
 A Formal Commitment
Following the court’s order, the groom submitted an affidavit agreeing to the increased dower amount of $10,000. By doing so, he complied with the court’s ruling, confirming his commitment to financially support his wife and secure her future.
Case Concluded with the Woman’s Wishes Honored
With the dower issue resolved, the court dismissed the habeas corpus petition, affirming the woman’s decision to stay with her husband. The ruling not only reinforced her choice but also set a precedent for ensuring financial security in marital relationships. In the end, the groom was ordered to increase the dower, underscoring the importance of both autonomy and financial protection in marriage.
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