Maintenance Rights of Muslim Women under Muslim Personal Law

Abstract

In India, the Muslim community is the largest minority group, yet many Muslim women remain unaware of their rights under Muslim Personal Law, particularly concerning maintenance. Maintenance, a fundamental right, holds great importance as it ensures financial security and social dignity for women, especially during and after marriage. While Islamic principles emphasize fairness and protection for women, practical understanding and implementation of these maintenance rights are often clouded by cultural misconceptions and lack of awareness. This paper seeks to illuminate the rights Muslim women possess within the framework of Muslim Personal Law, exploring the spiritual and social principles intended to provide them with a secure livelihood. It delves into the role of cultural practices and community leaders in either reinforcing or obstructing these rights, highlighting the urgent need for informed dialogue and reform. By dispelling myths and shedding light on the core tenets of equality, this study emphasizes the crucial role of educating women as a means of fostering self-advocacy and economic stability. Through an in-depth look at maintenance rights, this study aims to bridge the knowledge gap, empowering women to claim what is rightfully theirs. In recognizing the significance of these protections, the research underlines the importance of widespread awareness and education, advocating for a future where every Muslim woman is equipped with the knowledge to assert her legal entitlements confidently. In doing so, it aspires to contribute to the larger cause of gender equity, upholding the dignity and welfare of Muslim women as envisioned in both traditional Islamic values and the modern social fabric of India.