Problems and Issues of Divorced Women in Pakistan and theirSolutions in the Light of Islamic Sharīah

Abstract

This article examines the problems and issues faced by divorced women in
Pakistan, including social stigma, economic hardship, legal challenges, and
psychological distress. Despite being permissible in Sharīah, the divorce (alṬalāq) is the most disliked act in the eyes of Allah Almighty. In certain scenario
where there is no other suitable option to keep the marital relationship, the man
is authorized to terminate the relationship through divorce. There are several
reasons for the occurrence of the divorce, some of which belong to the husband
and others belong to wife and some belong to the society. The article delves into
the societal pressures that exacerbate their plight, exploring potential solutions
within the framework of Islamic Sharīah, advocating for a more compassionate
and just interpretation of Islamic principles to alleviate the suffering of divorced
women. The proposed solution and recommendations include reinforcing
women’s rights to financial support, ensuring equitable treatment in legal
matters, and promoting community-based support systems. By aligning
contemporary challenges with Sharīah principles, the article argues for a more
inclusive and empathetic approach to addressing the issues faced by divorced
women in Pakistan, fostering their empowerment and social integration.