Islamic Inheritance Rights: Addressing Gender Inequality in Pakistan

Abstract

Pakistan, an Islamic country, upholds Islam as a comprehensive system of life, 
where the rights of all individuals are explicitly defined. Among these rights, 
Islam grants women a rightful share in inheritance, aiming to ensure equitable 
distribution of wealth and property. However, in Pakistan, the reality often 
deviates from this ideal. Many daughters are denied their inheritance rights, 
either through direct coercion or subtle threats of lifelong ostracism. This 
pervasive attitude, ingrained from childhood, promotes the unjust expectation 
that sisters should relinquish their inheritance in favor of their brothers. Such a 
norm is rarely, if ever, imposed on brothers, who are not expected to forfeit their 
share for their sisters. This disparity not only contravenes Islamic principles but 
also perpetuates gender inequality and injustice. This article examines the sociocultural factors contributing to this issue, the legal frameworks in place, and the 
need for societal reform to uphold the true spirit of Islamic inheritance laws. By 
addressing these challenges, Pakistan can move towards a more just and 
equitable society, ensuring that the rights of all individuals, particularly women, 
are respected and protected in accordance with Islamic teachings