Supreme Court: Divorced Muslim Woman Can Recover Money and Gold Given at Marriage

The Supreme Court held that a divorced Muslim woman is entitled to recover money, gold ornaments, and other properties given at the time of marriage under Section 3(1)(d) of the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Divorce) Act, 1986.

The Court clarified that the provision covers mehr, dower, and all properties given before, at, or after marriage, and must be interpreted to secure a divorced woman’s dignity, equality, and financial protection under Article 21.

It set aside the Calcutta High Court’s order, which had rejected her claim over discrepancies in the marriage register, and directed the respondent to remit the amount with 9% interest.

[Rousanara Begum v. S.K. Salahuddin & Anr.]