What Is Nikah?
Nikah is the Islamic marriage contract — a legal and spiritual agreement between two people, their families, and God. It requires: offer and acceptance (Ijab wa Qabool), two adult Muslim witnesses, and agreement on mahr (the gift from groom to bride).
Nikah Requirements in Pakistan
- Both parties' consent — forced marriage is illegal and invalid Islamically
- Wali (guardian) — a male guardian for the bride (per Hanafi school)
- Mahr — agreed gift/amount from groom to bride; her right
- Two witnesses — adult, Muslim, of sound mind
- Nikah Nama — legal document; must be registered with Union Council
Legal Registration in Pakistan
Under Muslim Family Laws Ordinance 1961, all nikah must be registered. A Nikah Registrar (Qazi) officiates and provides the Nikah Nama in triplicate. Register within 30 days with your local Union Council to obtain marriage certificate. Required documents: CNICs for both parties, divorce certificate if previously married.
The Mahr — A Woman's Right
Mahr is the bride's right — not her family's. It can be any agreed amount: cash, property, jewellery, or services. It is payable on demand. It is hers alone. Islam made this clear; Zinaaa champions it.
After Nikah — Your Rights
- Wife retains her own income and property
- Husband is financially responsible for the household
- Wife has the right to seek khula (divorce) in court
- Husband must provide proper accommodation