Muslim women's right to inheritance : A study of law and practice in Punjab, Pakistan

This study examines the principles of inheritance in Islamic law and their implementation within Pakistan’s legal system, with particular attention to how cultural beliefs, traditions, and social practices shape women’s access to inheritance. Inheritance rights are critical determinants of women’s economic security and social autonomy. However, many women are deprived of these rights due to entrenched cultural norms and systemic barriers. The study investigates the factors that compel women to forgo their inheritance entitlements, the obstacles they face in asserting their claims, and the broader implications for their socio-economic empowerment. Using a qualitative research design, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 29 participants, including 19 women, 6 men, 3 legal experts, and 1 Islamic scholar, across urban and rural areas of the Punjab province. Thematic analysis was employed to identify key patterns and narratives in the data. Findings reveal a complex interplay between legal provisions and patriarchal practices. Despite recent legislative reforms, women’s access to property remains constrained by familial resistance, limited legal literacy, and social pressures. The study emphasizes that while legal reforms are necessary, their effectiveness is undermined without complementary social and institutional change. The research ultimately advocates for a holistic approach to enhancing women’s inheritance rights, combining robust legal enforcement, targeted public awareness initiatives, and community-level engagement. By bridging the gap between law and practice, such interventions can promote women’s agency and foster long-term empowerment within Pakistani society