Latest news with #UnionCouncil
Express Tribune
a day ago
- Express Tribune
When Law Fails Women, Honour Kills Them
The writer is Associate Professor at Institute of Business Administration, Director of Population Research Center Sheetal and Zarak were murdered in the name of 'honour.' But this wasn't an isolated act of violence. It was part of a system—rehearsed, repeated, and reinforced—where control over women's lives is masked as tradition, culture, or faith. Some cases make headlines. A few become hashtags. Most vanish—into silence, into unmarked graves, into the forgotten margins of a society that punishes women simply for wanting to lead a life of their choice. Honour killings are just the visible tip of a deeper structure. For every woman whose life is taken, thousands more are forced to live lives they never chose—lives scripted by men around them. From the moment a girl dreams—of studying, working, choosing her friends or her partner—her ambitions are clipped, reshaped, or erased to fit the limits drawn by others. In Pakistan, particularly within rural and low-income communities, nearly 40% of girls are married off before they reach the age of 20. These young girls—still navigating childhood—often have little understanding of what they are being thrust into. Many are married to men much older than them, with the union framed as duty, obedience, or family honour. They are quickly reduced to childbearing machines and domestic slaves for the extended in-law family. Emotional neglect, coercion, and physical and psychological abuse become normalized—not because these girls accept it, but because they lack the awareness, agency, or support to question it. Sheetal tried to challenge it. She tried to step out of the system that had enslaved her. But like so many women, she found no real exit—only walls disguised as windows. Divorce vs Khula Women in Pakistan face systematic discrimination on all fronts. In Pakistan, the process of ending a marriage is a stark reflection of the gender imbalance embedded in both society and law. For men, divorce (talaq) is a right—simple, inexpensive, and procedurally smooth. For women, seeking freedom through khula is an uphill battle—legally, financially, and emotionally punishing. A man can divorce his wife simply by pronouncing talaq, verbally or in writing, and sending a notice to the local Union Council. The council is then required to initiate a 90-day reconciliation process, after which the divorce is automatically finalized if no compromise is reached. There is no need for him to justify the separation. He is not required to appear in court, present evidence, or face scrutiny. The entire process may cost him only a few hundred rupees in administrative paperwork and concludes in roughly three months. Now contrast this with khula, the only legal exit available to women under Islamic law. A woman must file a case in the Family Court, cite valid grounds for separation—such as cruelty, neglect, or incompatibility—and formally petition a judge to grant her release. The court issues summons to the husband, attempts reconciliation, and only then proceeds with hearings. Even though Islamic law does not require a woman to prove abuse to seek khula, judges—mostly male—often expect it. Her testimony alone is frequently questioned, and her suffering weighed against cultural expectations of endurance and obedience. Beyond legal hurdles, the financial disparity is equally crushing. While a man's divorce might cost less than a thousand rupees, a woman seeking khula must pay anywhere between Rs20,000 to Rs100,000 or more. Legal representation is often essential, and most women—especially from rural or low-income backgrounds—can neither afford a lawyer nor navigate the court system on their own. Transport costs, repeated court visits, documentation, and lost time only add to the burden. And often, as a condition of release, the woman is forced to forfeit her mehr—the financial security promised to her at the time of marriage. Ironically, this is money she may have never even seen, let alone controlled. While a man's divorce is finalized after the 90-day reconciliation period, a khula case can drag on for six months, a year, or longer—especially if the husband refuses to cooperate or attempts to delay proceedings. In that time, the woman may be exposed to threats, emotional blackmail, financial starvation, and even physical violence. The Illusion of Access So ask yourself: How is a woman, often denied education, banned from leaving home, and never allowed to handle money, supposed to navigate this process? How does she reach a courthouse when she's never taken a bus alone? How does she hire a lawyer when she doesn't even have a phone? In theory, khula exists. In reality, it is accessible only to the privileged—urban, educated, financially independent women. Even for them, it is exhausting and dehumanizing. For women trapped behind purdah, cut off from support, forbidden to speak to strangers, and wholly dependent on male relatives, khula is not difficult—it's unthinkable. Like Sheetal, women who dare to dream know that the only option they have is to run away and face death or spend their entire life imprisoned and enslaved in a barbaric system. A System That Hunts the Vulnerable And that's why honour killings persist. When women can't leave safely, they run. And when they run, they're hunted. There are no widespread legal aid programs. No helplines. No outreach. In areas where women are most vulnerable, legal literacy is almost zero. Khula is not a right—it's a fantasy. Sheetal didn't die because she broke the law. She died because she tried to survive it. Her story forces us to confront a brutal truth: How can a woman exercise her legal rights when she has no money, no mobility, no education, and no protection? Until we answer that—not with speeches, but with systems—women like Sheetal will keep being punished. Not for defiance. But for daring to live.
Express Tribune
a day ago
- Express Tribune
Sidra Arab's body exhumed in honour killing probe in Rawalpindi
Authorities in Rawalpindi exhumed the body of 17-year-old Sidra Arab on Monday as part of an ongoing investigation into her killing seemingly over honour. Police said Sidra's post-mortem was carried out at Pirwadhai Graveyard by a team from Holy Family Hospital, led by Senior Medical Officer Dr Misbahur Rehman. The medical board also included Dr Arif Saleem, mortuary supervisor Muhammad Saeed, and a hospital dispenser. Samples collected from the body will be sent to the Punjab Forensic Science Agency in Lahore. The results are expected to help determine the cause of death. Preliminary findings indicate signs of torture. Police sources said that Sidra's body was swollen due to water exposure, her tongue was protruding, and her neck bones were broken. The burial site had reportedly been tampered with to erase evidence, despite heavy rainfall on the day of the funeral. Read: Man kills wife for 'honour' Police believe Sidra may have been strangled in a suspected honour killing. Hospital officials said the medical board will submit a sealed report to the court once the forensic tests are complete. Eight suspects, including former union council vice chairperson Ismatullah Khan, have been arrested. Police say the suspects exhibited "extreme brutality" and are now being presented before the court under special security. Investigators are seeking extended physical remand for further interrogation. Sidra's second husband, Usman, and his father Muhammad Ilyas were brought to the graveyard for formal identification of the body. The exhumation and autopsy were conducted under court orders. Sidra had married her second husband, Usman, in Muzaffarabad on July 12. According to court documents, she had appeared before a judicial magistrate days later, confirming the marriage was consensual and stating that she feared for her life. She also requested court protection. Usman surrendered to police shortly after her death and handed over the marriage certificate and supporting documents. His father Ilyas released a video statement alleging that Sidra had been taken from their home by armed members of a local jirga, who promised a respectful farewell but instead killed her. Police say Sidra's burial was organised to hide the crime. CCTV footage from the graveyard, burial tools, and the loader rickshaw used to transport her body were recovered. Officials also found the relevant burial receipt had been removed from cemetery records. The jirga was allegedly led by Ismatullah Khan, a former Union Council Vice Chairman and local trader affiliated with the PML-N. Party officials have since publicly distanced themselves from him. Investigators say Section 311 of the Pakistan Penal Code has been invoked, ensuring the case cannot be settled privately and will proceed under state prosecution.
Time Business News
21-07-2025
- General
- Time Business News
Step by Step Guide to Getting a Single Status Certificate in Pakistan
Possibly, it is necessary to prove that you have never been married when you have been planning to get married out of the country, when applying to get a visa or during a legal proceeding which requires that you prove whether you have an unmarried certificate verification. Although a negative is usually difficult to prove, most of the nations including Pakistan possess more documents and processes which satisfy that purpose. In this article, we'll walk you through how to prove you've never been married, the types of documents commonly required, who issues them, and how to get them attested or legalized for use in another country. There are several situations where you may need to prove you have never been married: Getting married abroad or to a foreign national Applying for a family visa or spouse visa Immigration and embassy-related processes Legal matters such as inheritance or property division Personal records and documentation updates Having this proof helps prevent issues like bigamy accusations or delays in visa and marriage processing. It also ensures that your future spouse and legal authorities have a clear record of your marital status. The most commonly used document to prove you have never been married is called a Single Status Certificate or Unmarried Certificate. In Pakistan, this document serves as a legal declaration that you have not been previously married. It usually includes: Full name CNIC number Date of birth Father's name A statement confirming that you have never been married The official seal and signature of the issuing authority In some cases, a court-issued affidavit or notarized declaration may also be accepted as proof of single status. When applying for a certificate to prove you've never been married, the following documents are generally needed: Copy of your CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card) Passport copy (if needed for foreign use) Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill or domicile certificate) A written application explaining the need for the certificate A sworn affidavit (attested by a notary public or magistrate) Possibly, witness statements from family members The exact requirements may vary depending on whether the certificate is for local use or for submission to a foreign embassy. In Pakistan, a Single Status Certificate or Unmarried Certificate can be obtained from the following sources: Union Council: Some Union Councils issue certificates confirming a person's marital status based on local records and verification. Affidavit from a Court or Notary Public: A sworn affidavit stating that you have never been married can be prepared, signed, and notarized. This is one of the most commonly accepted methods. District or Family Court: In some cases, individuals obtain a court-verified declaration for higher authenticity, especially when dealing with embassies. Once issued, the certificate or affidavit may need attestation from: Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in Pakistan The embassy of the destination country (if the document is for foreign use) If you're planning to get married abroad or apply for a foreign visa, you'll often need to submit a MOFA-attested unmarried certificate, and sometimes have it apostilled in Pakistan or legalized by the destination country's embassy. Steps include: Obtain the certificate from a Union Council or prepare an affidavit Get it notarized or verified by a magistrate (if required) Submit for attestation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Get the document legalized from the embassy of the country where it will be used It's essential to confirm with the embassy or consulate regarding what format and authentication they accept. Can I prove I'm single if I was divorced? No, in that case, you'd need a divorce certificate. The unmarried certificate is only for those who have never been married. Is the certificate permanent? The certificate usually does not have an expiration date, but for embassy or visa purposes, most authorities expect it to be issued within the past 3–6 months. Can overseas Pakistanis apply for the certificate from abroad? Yes, through Pakistani embassies or by authorizing someone via power of attorney to apply on your behalf in Pakistan. Can it be used for marriage in the UAE, UK, or Canada? Yes, but it must be attested and legalized as per the requirements of that specific country. Proving that you have never been married might seem challenging, but with the right documentation, it's a straightforward process in Pakistan. Whether you're getting married abroad, applying for a spouse visa, or undergoing immigration procedures, the Single Status Certificate or Unmarried Affidavit plays a critical role in verifying your personal check with the destination country's embassy for their specific document requirements and follow the proper attestation khula procedures in Pakistan to ensure your paperwork is accepted without delays. By taking these careful steps, you can confidently move forward with your plans, knowing your legal status is clearly and officially recognized. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time Business News
18-07-2025
- General
- Time Business News
Can a Nikah Be Done Online in Islam? Conditions and Validity
In today's digital world, technology has revolutionized how people communicate, interact, and even get married. For Muslim couples, especially those living abroad or in long-distance relationships, online marriage has emerged as a practical solution. But one essential question remains: Is online marriage procedure valid in Islam? Understanding the Islamic requirements before opting for an online Nikah is crucial to ensure religious authenticity and personal peace of mind. This article provides a comprehensive guide for Muslim couples exploring online marriage, especially in contexts where physical presence is difficult or impossible. In Islam, a Nikah (marriage contract) is considered valid when specific core elements are fulfilled. These include the mutual consent of the bride and groom, the presence of at least two adult Muslim witnesses, a clear offer and acceptance (Ijab and Qubool) made in the same sitting, and the agreement of a Mahr (dower). Another important component is the presence of a Nikah Khawan (marriage officiant), usually a qualified religious scholar or imam, who solemnizes the marriage. The involvement of a wali (guardian) is also significant, especially in the case of a bride, according to many Islamic schools of thought. These conditions serve to protect both parties and ensure the marriage is recognized under Islamic jurisprudence. Thanks to video conferencing platforms like Zoom, WhatsApp, or Skype, couples can now fulfill the essential elements of Nikah remotely. Live mutual consent can be recorded in real-time, and witnesses can attend virtually from different locations. In many cases, the Nikah Khawan officiates the ceremony online, ensuring all conditions are met. Scholars generally agree that the real-time presence of participants—even if virtual—is valid under Islamic principles, as long as no deception or miscommunication occurs. Additionally, the guardian's consent (if required) can be obtained in the same session, fulfilling the condition of a unified and transparent Nikah ceremony. The opinions of Islamic scholars regarding online marriage vary slightly among different schools of thought. Hanafi, Shafi'i, and Hanbali scholars largely agree that an online Nikah is permissible if all the essential requirements are met, including simultaneous Ijab and Qubool, verified witnesses, and proper representation. Many well-respected scholars have issued fatwas (Islamic rulings) supporting the validity of online Nikah registrar in Lahore, especially when done out of necessity, such as for overseas Pakistanis or couples separated due to immigration delays. However, scholars also emphasize the importance of avoiding fraud and ensuring all parties are known and consenting during the online ceremony. While Islamic principles may recognize an online marriage as valid, legal registration varies significantly depending on the country. For example, in Pakistan, couples must register their Nikah with the Union Council for it to be legally valid. If the Nikah is conducted online, it may require attestation or additional documentation to be accepted officially. In countries like the UAE, UK, or USA, the legal framework may not recognize an online marriage unless it is registered according to local civil laws. Therefore, it is important to distinguish between the Shariah validity of an online Nikah and its legal enforceability, especially when it comes to visas, inheritance, or spousal rights. To ensure your online Nikah is valid in the eyes of Islam and the law, couples should follow some key guidelines: Use a qualified Nikah Khawan or religious authority who is experienced in online solemnization or religious authority who is experienced in online solemnization Ensure the presence of witnesses , preferably visible and participating live during the ceremony , preferably visible and participating live during the ceremony Get recordings or written documentation of the entire Nikah process of the entire Nikah process Make sure the Mahr is clearly stated and agreed upon Verify all identities and consent beforehand to avoid misunderstandings If possible, register the marriage with the local Union Council or a relevant legal body By following these steps, couples can safeguard their religious values and prepare for any legal procedures afterward. Can a Nikah conducted over Zoom or Skype be considered valid in Islam? Yes, if the essential conditions like consent, witnesses, and Mahr are fulfilled, most scholars agree it is valid. Is a wali necessary for online Nikah? In many Islamic traditions, especially for brides, a wali's presence or consent is important. His role must be clearly included in the process. Is online marriage permissible for Muslims living in foreign countries? Yes, especially when physical presence is not possible. Many Muslims abroad choose online Nikah to meet both Islamic and visa-related needs. What if the witnesses are located in different countries? As long as all parties are present in the same live session (video call), the requirement for witnesses can still be fulfilled. In conclusion, online marriage and divorce procedures in Pakistan can be valid in Islam if all the religious requirements are met without compromise. With proper planning, honest intentions, and involvement of trustworthy Islamic authorities, couples can perform a fully Shariah-compliant Nikah—even across borders. However, for complete peace of mind, it is essential to consult both an Islamic scholar and a legal expert to ensure your online marriage is accepted both religiously and legally. This balanced approach helps couples begin their married life with confidence, clarity, and full recognition. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time Business News
14-07-2025
- General
- Time Business News
How Pakistani Law Supports Women Seeking Marital Separation
In Pakistan, a Muslim woman has the legal and religious right to seek separation from her husband through a process known as Khula procedure in Pakistan. This right is recognized under both Islamic law (Shariah) and Pakistan's family court system. Unlike Talaq, which is a divorce initiated by the husband, Khula empowers women to take legal steps to end a marriage that has become emotionally, physically, or spiritually harmful. Khula is not just a legal formality—it is a safeguard for women who are living in unhealthy marital environments and no longer feel secure, supported, or emotionally connected in the relationship. While Islamic teachings stress reconciliation, they also allow women the option to walk away from oppression or conflict when necessary. Islamic law gives women the right to seek separation when their marriage fails to fulfill the purpose of mutual peace and companionship. In Pakistan, this right is supported by the Family Courts Act of 1964, which allows a woman to approach the court and request the dissolution of her marriage on valid grounds. The legal foundation of Khula is based on the understanding that forced or unhappy marriages contradict the spiritual values of Islam. Therefore, when a woman is unable to live with her husband within the boundaries set by Allah (as mentioned in the Holy Quran), she can file a Khula petition in the Family Court. The judge examines the circumstances and, if satisfied, grants Khula Pakistan family law. The Khula process requires court involvement because the dissolution is not initiated by the husband, and the legal system must ensure that both parties are heard, rights are protected, and the Islamic obligation of returning Haq Mehr (dower) is fulfilled where required. A Muslim woman seeking separation must follow a series of legal steps through the family court. The process involves paperwork, legal representation, court hearings, and sometimes negotiation. Here are the key steps involved: Hire a family lawyer who specializes in Khula and family law matters who specializes in Khula and family law matters Draft and file a Khula petition in the Family Court with clear reasons for separation in the Family Court with clear reasons for separation Provide supporting documents , including the Nikahnama, CNIC copy, and proof of mistreatment (if any) , including the Nikahnama, CNIC copy, and proof of mistreatment (if any) Attend court hearings , where both the wife and husband may be asked to appear , where both the wife and husband may be asked to appear Return of Haq Mehr may be required if the court finds it necessary may be required if the court finds it necessary Receive the Khula Decree once the court is convinced that reconciliation is not possible once the court is convinced that reconciliation is not possible Submit the decree to the Union Council, which will issue a Court marriage law in Pakistan after a 90-day period Filing for Khula is not just a legal procedure—it often involves emotional and social challenges for the woman. In many cases, women may face pressure from family members, community stigma, or emotional trauma. However, seeking legal help and understanding one's rights can empower women to make the right decision for their well-being. Legally, once the Khula process in Pakistan is issued, the woman is free from the marital bond and can move forward with her life. Socially, she may need support from family or legal aid groups to adjust to post-divorce realities. From a religious point of view, Islam encourages justice and dignity, and Khula is a means of restoring both in cases where the marriage becomes unbearable. Women who take this step often report feeling emotionally relieved, spiritually stronger, and mentally free from prolonged distress. With the support of the legal system and a reliable lawyer, the journey toward self-respect and peace becomes smoother and more accessible. The court process, documentation, and legal obligations involved in Khula can be complex. Without proper guidance, women may face unnecessary delays or miss important legal requirements. This is where the role of an experienced family lawyer becomes essential. A skilled lawyer can: Ensure all documents are prepared and submitted properly Represent the woman in court to make her case stronger Advise on issues like child custody, Haq Mehr, and dowry return Help with the post-decree formalities like Union Council processing Protect the legal rights of the woman during and after separation Legal professionals also help ensure that the Khula Pakistan family law and Unmarried certificate in Pakistan is treated with fairness and dignity throughout the court proceedings. In many cases, a lawyer also serves as an emotional support system, helping the client understand what to expect and how to handle the challenges of separation. Q1: Can a woman get Khula without the husband's permission? Yes, she can. The court does not require the husband's consent to grant Khula. Q2: How long does the Khula process take in Pakistan? Usually between 2 to 4 months, depending on whether the husband contests the case. Q3: What happens if the husband refuses to appear in court? The court can proceed in his absence if he has been properly notified and still does not attend. Q4: Is it mandatory to return Haq Mehr? Yes, in most cases, the wife is required to return Haq Mehr, unless the court decides otherwise. Q5: Can a woman get custody of children after Khula? Yes, child custody is decided separately based on the welfare of the child. Mothers often get custody of younger children. Q6: Can overseas Pakistani women file for Khula? Yes, they can authorize a lawyer in Pakistan through a Special Power of Attorney. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
