As per Lawkidunya, Divorce regulations in Pakistan are governed by the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance, 1961, which outlines the procedures for divorce, also known as “talaq”.

Types of Divorce in Pakistan

There are several types of divorce recognized in Pakistan, including:
– Talaq-e-Ahsan: A single pronouncement of divorce made during a tuhr (period between menstruations), followed by abstinence from physical relations with the wife until the end of the iddat period.
– Talaq-e-Hasan: Three pronouncements of divorce made during successive tuhrs, without physical relations with the wife during this period.
– Talaq-e-Biddat: A divorce where three pronouncements are made in one sitting, considered irrevocable.
– Khula: A divorce initiated by the wife, where she relinquishes her right to receive maintenance from her husband.
– Mubarat: A mutual divorce agreement between the husband and wife.

Divorce Procedure in Pakistan

To initiate a divorce, the husband must provide written notice to the Chairman of the Union Council, who will then attempt to reconcile the couple through an Arbitration Council. The divorce will only be effective after a 90-day waiting period, unless the wife is pregnant, in which case the divorce will not be effective until after the pregnancy.

Important Notes

– A divorce must be certified by a court of law or a non-judicial administrative entity.
– The couple can remarry without an intervening marriage, unless the divorce is for the third time.
– The practice of Talaq-e-Biddat has been abolished in some Muslim countries, and its validity is disputed among Islamic scholars.