ISLAMABAD – The National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Interior has unanimously rejected a bill seeking to ban dowry practices in Pakistan. The decision came during a committee meeting chaired by Khurram Nawaz.
The proposed legislation was introduced by Member of the National Assembly Sharmila Faruqui. The bill aimed to declare dowry illegal and prescribe penalties for violations. It also included provisions allowing parents to give voluntary gifts to their children.
During detailed discussions, the committee concluded that the bill was impractical and unworkable. Members emphasized that enforcing a complete ban on dowry would be difficult in social and legal terms. As a result, the bill was rejected unanimously.
The decision follows a landmark ruling by the Supreme Court of Pakistan regarding dowry ownership. The court clarified that a bride retains full ownership of all dowry items and wedding gifts, even after divorce.
Justice Mansoor Ali Shah authored the seven-page judgment, stating clearly that all gifts given to a bride are her exclusive property. Neither the husband nor his relatives have any legal claim over these items.
The verdict also specified that gifts presented to the groom or his family are not considered part of the dowry. Furthermore, the judiciary can only intervene to recover property that belongs solely to the bride.
Experts say the Supreme Court’s ruling strengthens women’s property rights, providing legal protection against disputes over dowry. However, lawmakers in the National Assembly remain cautious about legislating a complete ban due to enforcement challenges.
The rejection of the bill indicates that dowry issues will continue to be addressed primarily through judicial rulings rather than new legislation. The committee emphasized that public awareness and social reforms may be more effective in reducing dowry-related practices.
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Civil society representatives welcomed the court’s verdict but urged the National Assembly to consider alternative measures to protect women from dowry-related harassment. The debate highlights ongoing tensions between social customs and legal reforms in Pakistan.
