A subcommittee for the Senate on Monday unanimously approved the Bill on the Family Court (amendments), 2024, which requires family courts to set monthly maintenance for financially dependent female divorces and their children at the very first consultation.

The bill introduced by Senator Samina Mumtaz Zehri on September 9, 2024, seeks to provide immediate financial relief to women and children who became vulnerable during long -term divorce cases. Zehri emphasized that almost 90% of women in Pakistan lack independent income, making timely maintenance significant.

According to the proposed amendment, courts must establish a fixed maintenance amount during the initial consultation. If the defendant fails to pay on the 14th of each month, they lose their right to present a defense, allowing the court to be based solely on the complainant’s claims and evidence.

The chairman of the meeting emphasized Senator Zamir Hussain Ghumro State Constitutional Duty under Article 35 to protect the family unit, especially women and children. He noted that delays in maintenance decisions weaken social protection and injuries vulnerable families.

Senator Anusha Rahman Ahmad Khan also supported the bill and called it a progressive step towards the protection of women’s rights. She encouraged further legislation in this direction.

The extra secretary of the Ministry of Law and Justice noted that similar reforms have already been implemented in Punjab, although the Ministry’s jurisdiction is limited to federal affairs.

Following unanimous approval from the subcommittee, the bill is now moving to the largest Senate Committee, with full Senate’s consideration expected in the upcoming sessions.