Diagnostic Study of Nikkahnamas in Punjab

The 50-page Diagnostic Study of Nikkahnamas in Punjab, supported by the American Bar Association Rule of Law Initiative (ABA ROLI), explores the state of women’s marriage rights as recorded in the nikkahnama across two districts, Lahore and Pakpattan. Drawing on an analysis of 1,100 Nikkahnamas and 105 surveys with Nikkah Registrars across Lahore and Pakpattan, the study reveals major lapses in how key marriage rights, such as the right to dower, delegated right to divorce, maintenance, and child marriage protection, are recorded and implemented. The report finds widespread instances of unregistered marriages, blank or crossed-out clauses, and a consistent lack of awareness among registrars regarding women’s legal entitlements. The study also documents persistent biases that undermine women’s ability to negotiate special conditions and safeguard their rights through the nikkahnama.