Women Allowed to End Marriage If Husband Is Missing. The Council of Islamic Ideology has clarified that a woman can legally approach a court to end her marriage if her husband has been missing for two years.
Review of Faskh-e-Nikah Laws
According to a report published in Daily Jang, the council reviewed laws related to Faskh-e-Nikah, which means court-based dissolution of marriage. The review focused on reducing gender imbalance in existing family laws.
Agreement with Special Committee Recommendations
The council agreed, in principle, with recommendations presented by a special committee. This committee was formed to address legal difficulties faced by women in prolonged or uncertain marriages.
Missing Husband or Long-Term Imprisonment
The council stated that a woman may file a petition for annulment if her husband has been missing for two years. The same right applies if the husband has been imprisoned for three years.
Failure to Fulfill Marital Duties
If a husband fails to fulfill marital obligations, the woman can seek dissolution through the court. This protects women from emotional and financial hardship.
Serious Illness as Grounds for Dissolution
The council also said that if a husband is suffering from serious conditions such as mental illness, cancer, or similar diseases, the wife may request dissolution after waiting for one year.
Legal Relief for Affected Women
These clarifications aim to provide relief to women who face long-term uncertainty, neglect, or suffering due to their husband’s absence or inability to maintain the marriage.
Conclusion
This decision by the Council of Islamic Ideology strengthens women’s legal position in marriage. It ensures women are not trapped in uncertain or harmful situations. The clarification promotes fairness, dignity, and balance while staying within Islamic and legal boundaries.
