The Lahore High Court (LHC) has issued an important decision saying that a father cannot avoid his legal, moral, and religious duty to support his minor child through any private agreement or settlement.
The court explained that the right of a child to receive maintenance is continuous. It cannot be taken away permanently, even if both parents agree to a compromise in the past. The judges made it clear that a child’s basic needs must always be protected under the law.
Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani heard the case and rejected a petition that challenged earlier court orders requiring a father to pay maintenance for his young son. The father had argued that a settlement made in 2007 and certain legal time limits should stop him from paying support. However, the court did not accept this argument.
The judgment strongly stated that a father is responsible for providing all essential needs of his child. This includes food, education, healthcare, clothing, and shelter. The court emphasized that these responsibilities cannot be ignored or removed through private agreements that go against the welfare of a child.
The court further noted that the rights of a minor are protected by law and cannot be reduced or waived by parents. Any agreement that harms the interests of a child has no legal value.
This decision reinforces the principle that the welfare of children is the top priority in family law cases. It also highlights that courts will ensure children receive proper financial support from their parents, regardless of past settlements or personal agreements.
The ruling serves as a reminder that parental responsibility continues until a child becomes financially independent and that the law will always protect a child’s basic rights and needs.
