'Carefully read Nikahnama before signing it'

The majority of women are unaware of the content of the Nikahnama (marriage contract) they are signing, which could negatively impact their lives.

Speakers at an event titled "Mela on Women's Rights in the Nikahnama," organised by the Legal Aid Society (LAS) on Wednesday, urged parents and young girls to thoroughly read the legal rights outlined in the marriage agreement before signing.

"The Nikahnama is more than just a formality," emphasised Haya Emaan Zahid, CEO of LAS. "It is a powerful tool for women to secure their rights."

Iqbal Detho, Chairperson of the Sindh Human Rights Commission, noted that Sindh is the only province in the country that equalises the marriage age for brides and grooms, referring to the Sindh Child Marriage Restraint Act, 2013, which was introduced to discourage underage marriages.

"Both the bride and groom have the full right to read and fill out their Nikahnama," added Syed Khalid Hyder Shah, Additional Chief Secretary of Local Government.

During a panel discussion, speakers reiterated the importance of carefully reviewing the Nikahnama before signing. "Most girls see it for the first time on the day of their nikah," remarked podcaster and writer Elhaam Shaikh. Annam Khan from Aahung discussed the challenges faced by girls in underage marriages, including complications during pregnancy, domestic violence, and mental health struggles.

Syed Uzair Al Huda, a Nikah registrar, shared his experience of families refusing to fill out the Nikahnama, even when he insisted. "The Nikahnama ensures gender equality, particularly when families give it proper attention. Both the bride and groom must read and fill it out themselves. It's a crucial contract that impacts their entire married life, yet many don't even bother to read it." In a play directed by a well-known classical dancer and social activist, the issue of the Nikahnama was highlighted.