If reconciliation fails and the wife remains firm in her request, the court may grant a decree of dissolution of marriage by Lex. In most cases, the court will require the wife to return the haq mehr (dower) received from the husband, in line with Islamic principles that advocate fairness for both parties. The court may also consider additional factors such as dowry articles or financial support, depending on the circumstances.
Once the khula decree is passed, the woman must observe an iddat period of 90 days, during which she cannot remarry. After the completion of this waiting period, the dissolution becomes final and legally binding. The marriage is officially terminated, and the wife regains her legal independence.
Khula represents a vital aspect of women’s rights in Pakistan’s legal system. It empowers women to exit marriages that are harmful, abusive, or emotionally distressing. The Family Courts are entrusted with ensuring that each khula case is handled with fairness, privacy, and due regard to Islamic values. Through this legal avenue, women are provided a dignified process to seek justice and reclaim personal freedom when marriage becomes a burden rather than a blessing.