The Supreme Court of Pakistan has issued a clear ruling that property gifted to a woman at the time of marriage belongs only to her. Husbands or in-laws cannot keep, hold, or misuse it.
In a four-page judgment by Justice Shakeel Ahmad, a three-member bench led by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi said ownership is decided by the giver’s intention and the woman’s right to use and benefit from the gifts. This applies to jewelry, dowry items, and other bridal gifts from parents, relatives, husband, or in-laws.
The court stressed that these gifts are not just for show. They provide financial security and economic independence for women, especially during difficult times.The decision was made in a case involving the return of dowry items, which included 87 tolas of gold jewellery.
The Supreme Court made it clear that such property cannot be withheld. If a woman is unlawfully deprived of her belongings, she can recover them through Family Courts.
This landmark decision strengthens women’s property rights under Pakistani law. It reinforces that bridal gifts remain the wife’s exclusive property even after separation or disputes.
