Supreme Court Orders Nikah Registrars to Fill All Nikahnama Columns Properly

The Supreme Court has ordered Nikah registrars to diligently complete all columns of the prescribed Nikahnama, ensuring no column is left blank without a lawful basis. In a 26-page judgment led by Justice Shahid Waheed, the court emphasized the importance of adhering to the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance, 1961 and relevant rules. The ruling highlighted that dower (Haq Mahr), a mandatory aspect of marriage under Islamic law, must be clearly stated in Column 13, specifying the form of the dower whether it's in money, movable or immovable property.

For property dower, Column 16 requires detailed description, measurements, location, and value. The registrar must explain these entries to the couple before they sign the Nikahnama. Any special conditions or delegated rights of talaq must mirror the parties' agreement, not the registrar's interpretation. The court directed that unclear terms must be clarified with the spouses before registering.

After completion, the registrar must authenticate the form, provide copies to the spouses, and forward one to the Union Council. The court also mandated periodic training and inspection of Nikah registrars to ensure compliance with the law and proper form filling.