A subcommittee of the Senate unanimously approved the bill on family courts (amendment), which forces family courts to fix the monthly interview for financially dependent divorced and their children during the very first hearing.
The bill, presented by senator Samina Mumtaz Zehri, September 9, 2024, seeks to immediately dispense women and vulnerable children during an prolonged divorce extension. Zehri stressed that almost 90% of women in Pakistan lack independent income, which makes maintenance in time timely essential.
Under the proposed modification, the courts must fix a fixed maintenance amount at the initial hearing. If the defendant does not pay by each month of each month, he loses his right to present a defense, allowing the court to reign solely on the allegations and the proofs of the complainant.
Chairing the meeting, Senator Zamir Hussain Ghumro stressed the constitutional duty of the State under article 35 to protect the family unit, in particular women and children. He noted that delays in maintenance decisions weaken social protections and harm vulnerable families.
Senator Anusha Rahman Ahmad Khan also supported the bill, appealing to a progressive stage towards the safeguard of women’s rights. She has encouraged new legislation in this direction.
The additional secretary of the ministry of Law and the justice noted that similar reforms are already implemented in Punjab, although the competence of the ministry is limited to federal issues.
Following the unanimous approval of the subcommittee, the bill is now moving to the main committee of the Senate, with a complete consideration of the Senate provided for in future sessions.
