The Supreme Court of Pakistan has delivered a landmark judgment affirming that gold jewellery, bridal gifts, and other presents received by a bride at the time of marriage are her exclusive personal property. The Court unequivocally stated that neither her husband nor her in-laws hold any legal or proprietary claim over such items. Retaining or withholding these assets constitutes unlawful deprivation of the bride’s ownership rights.
Bench and Verdict Details
A three-member bench headed by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi, comprising Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan and Justice Shakeel Ahmad, delivered the verdict. The detailed judgment, authored by Justice Shakeel Ahmad, was approved for reporting. The Supreme Court held that gold, jewellery, and bridal gifts presented by parents, relatives, or friends are the bride’s exclusive property. Ownership is determined by the donor’s intention and the purpose of the gift.
Legal Clarifications and Rights
The Court further clarified that neither the husband nor his family members have the right to take possession, retain, or make unauthorized use of the bride’s jewellery or personal gifts. If a wife seeks the return of her jewellery, dowry articles, or personal belongings, she may approach the Family Court, which possesses full legal jurisdiction to adjudicate such claims.
Upholding Precedent
Dismissing the husband’s appeal, the Supreme Court upheld the Lahore High Court’s judgment, reaffirming that jewellery and gifts presented to a bride on her marriage remain her exclusive personal property. This ruling reinforces the legal principle that bridal assets are not subject to claims by the husband or his family.
