RIGHTS OF WOMEN IN ISLAM

Islam encourages marriage and prohibits any deviated forms of gratification. Marriage helps men and women to develop along natural lines and head towards development and success through mutual co-operation. Marriage prevents immorality, licentiousness and irresponsibility. The spouses in marriage agree to share rights and responsibilities to develop a happy family. In this regard it is a contract entered upon by both participants who vow to be ruled by the established law of God. The consent of the woman is essential for the completion of the marriage. What a contrast this is to the prevalent system of marriage in our country where the women are given over in the possession of greedy people who cannot be satisfied without demanding for a handsome amount of monies as well as other items of domestic luxury together with the girl. Islam does not have any concept of dowry or dehej. On the contrary, the woman receives the Mehr (Dower) in marriage, which is the bridemoney, an exclusive right of the bride. This Mehr may be paid at once after the solemnisation (Nikah) of marriage or at any time in life. But if it is not paid during the lifetime, it is considered a debt and like all other debts must be paid from the legacy of the deceased even before distribution of property among the legal heirs. Apart from the Mehr the wife is entitled to a share of the deceased husband’s property also. The educational system that is followed completely ignores the moral and spiritual guidance of human beings. This is the reason why society itself is ignorant about how to respect the women. Islam draws out the complete code of conduct and provides for maintaining the honour and dignity of the women through a modest dress code. All the exploitation and crimes regarding the women generally centres around their physical charms. So, to put a full stop on any such exploitation, believing women have been encouraged to follow a modest dress code and come out of their houses only when in need, not ramble aimlessly. Their safety is further ensured by making it a rule that in long distance and overnight journeys, they be accompanied by a male close relative with whom marriage is not possible. The rights of women in Islam are really God’s blessings. In this age of violence, misogyny, subordination, exploitation and oppression, women are frantically seeking fair ways and means of deliverance. They want Women's guardians are advised not to obstruct their pursuits in education but to encourage them and provide them with opportunities.