Sometimes, real reform doesn’t require massive laws or complicated policies.
Sometimes, one small change can save millions from years of suffering.
I strongly believe that if we add just one extra column to Pakistan’s Nikahnama, making it 26 instead of 25, it could bring enormous relief to families across the country.
What’s Missing in the Current Nikahnama?
Our Nikahnama already contains 25 columns covering important matters such as:
- Haq Mehr
- Marriage conditions
- Divorce rights
- Witnesses
- Gifts exchanged at marriage
- Registration details
Almost everything is documented.
Except one critical issue:
Dowry (Jahez).
This single omission has created countless legal disputes and emotional trauma.
Dowry: A Silent Source of Endless Litigation
Dowry-related cases are among the most painful family disputes in Pakistani courts.
Every year, thousands of people spend years fighting over claims like:
- “We gave PKR 2.5 million in dowry.”
- “No dowry was taken at all.”
- “Only a small amount was received.”
Many men genuinely refuse dowry and consider it a curse. Yet after marital disputes, sudden claims of 25, 30, even 35 lakh rupees appear in court, despite nothing ever being taken.
On the other hand, there are also cases where families do give expensive dowry, but later the groom’s side denies it completely.
Because nothing is officially recorded, courts are forced into lengthy trials, witnesses, and evidence battles that drag on for years.
Everyone suffers.
The Simple Solution: Add a 26th Column
Add one column to the Nikahnama:
“Was dowry taken at the time of marriage?
If yes, specify its value and attach a list.”
That’s it.
If:
- No dowry was taken → officially record “Nil.”
- Dowry was taken → mention the amount and attach a signed list, stamped and registered with the Union Council.
This small step would:
- Prevent false claims
- Protect innocent husbands
- Secure genuine rights of wives
- Eliminate years of litigation
- Allow courts to decide dowry matters immediately
After divorce or khula, judges could simply rely on the registered Nikahnama and issue a straight decree, instead of dragging families through endless trials.
Let Me Be Clear
I am not advocating dowry. I personally consider dowry a social curse.
But if it happens, or if it does not happen, it must be officially documented.
Truth on paper prevents lies in court.
A Message to Lawmakers
I sincerely hope this message reaches:
- Every legislator
- Every assembly
- Every policymaker in Pakistan
Your small step can save people from years of legal misery.
Just one additional column.
That’s all.
Sometimes justice doesn’t need revolution, it needs registration.
Final Thoughts
Family courts are overloaded. Families are exhausted. Children grow up watching their parents fight cases that could have been resolved in a single day. A 26th Nikahnama column can change that. I hope those with the power to legislate will recognize the value of this simple reform.
May wisdom prevail.