Pakistan’s Supreme Court has ruled that gold jewellery and other ornaments given to a bride by her parents, family members, or relatives at the time of marriage are her personal property. The court made it clear that these gifts belong only to the bride and cannot be claimed by anyone else.
According to the judgment, a husband or his family has no legal right to keep, use, or take ownership of the jewellery or other bridal gifts received by the woman during her marriage. The court said these items remain the bride’s property regardless of any family dispute or separation.
The Supreme Court also explained that bridal jewellery and dowry often provide financial security for women.
These belongings can help support a woman during difficult times and play an important role in her economic independence. Because of this, the law protects her ownership rights over such gifts.
The judgment further stated that keeping or refusing to return a woman’s jewellery or bridal belongings without her permission is unlawful. Anyone who withholds or misuses these items may be violating her legal rights.
The court also confirmed that women have the legal right to recover their jewellery and other bridal gifts through family courts under existing laws. If these belongings are not returned, they can seek legal relief and request the court to protect their rights.
The ruling reinforces the legal protection of women’s property rights in Pakistan and provides greater clarity on the ownership of bridal gifts. It also highlights the importance of safeguarding women’s financial security and ensuring that their personal belongings remain protected under the law.
