A Senate Subcommittee unanimously approved the bill of Family Courts (amendment), 2024, which requires family courts to fix monthly maintenance for the divorced female financial dependent and their children at the first hearing.
The bill, presented by Senator Samina Mumtaz Zehri on September 9, 2024, seeks to provide immediate financial relief to women and children who have become vulnerable during prolonged divorce procedures. Zehri stressed that almost 90% of women in Pakistan lack independent income, which makes timely maintenance essential.
According to the proposed amendment, the courts must establish a fixed maintenance amount at the initial hearing. If the defendant does not pay before the 14th of each month, they lose their right to present a defense, allowing the court to rule only on the claims and evidence of the plaintiff.
By chairing the meeting, Senator Zamir Hussain Ghumro emphasized the constitutional duty of the State by virtue of article 35 to protect family unit, particularly women and children. He pointed out that delays in maintenance decisions weaken social protections and damage vulnerable families.
Senator Anusha Rahman Ahmad Khan also supported the bill, qualifying him as a progressive step to safeguard women’s rights. She encouraged greater legislation in this direction.
The additional secretary of the Ministry of Law and Justice said that similar reforms are already implemented in Punjab, although the jurisdiction of the Ministry is limited to federal affairs.
After the unanimous approval of the subcommittee, the bill is now moved to the main committee of the Senate, with the total consideration of the Senate in the next sessions.
