Implications of Law of Inheritance in South Punjab: Responses and Challenges "1999- 2018"

Abstract

Owning and controlling inherited property and assets can benefit women economically, socially, politically, and psychologically. However, in South Punjab's culture, women are often denied their fair share of an inheritance, and many voluntarily give up their rights. The purpose of this study is to understand this phenomenon by examining the societal myths and cultural roles that justify denial from successfully claiming their inheritance in South Punjab from 1999 to 2018. D.G. Khan and Multan divisions were selected. The study utilized a purposive sampling approach and recruited 200 females without cases, 200 who filed cases and 20 bureaucrats. Three in-depth interview guides were created to collect data. The findings reveal that cultural and traditional beliefs mediate denial and submission. While traditional customs of South Punjab like Watta Satta and forced marriages and unawareness of rights were common. To address the issue, cultural narratives should be deconstructed, records should be made transparent, and awareness should be increased.