LAHORE: The Lahore High Court (LHC) has announced a new facility for women to file khula and dower cases. The court ruled that women can now file cases for khula and dower (Haq Mehr) in the same district where they are living.
The LHC stated that this approach improves convenience and strengthens women’s access to justice in family disputes.
Justice Malik Muhammad Awais Khalid delivered the six-page judgment while deciding a petition filed by Ayesha Nasir. The court noted that forcing women to pursue cases in distant courts often creates unnecessary legal and financial challenges.
Court stresses easier access to justice
In the written ruling, Justice Khalid observed that women frequently face difficulties when they must travel to another district to pursue family litigation. Therefore, the court emphasized that allowing women to file cases in the district where they live ensures smoother legal proceedings.
The judgment further stated that courts should prioritize the convenience and safety of women when deciding jurisdiction in family matters. As a result, the ruling reinforces the principle that access to justice should remain practical and accessible.
Moreover, the court explained that such legal flexibility helps reduce procedural delays and encourages fair resolution of disputes. By permitting women to approach courts closer to their homes, the judicial system can better protect their rights.
Petitioner sought transfer of case to Lahore
During the hearing, petitioner Ayesha Nasir requested the court to transfer her case from the Family Court in Jaranwala to Lahore. She informed the court that her husband, Aun Abbas, had already filed a related case in the Family Court of Faisalabad.
The court concluded that women must not experience unnecessary hardship in pursuing family cases. Therefore, the court allowed the petition, permitting women to initiate khula and dower cases in the district of their residence.
