Psychological, Family and Legal Issues Facing Widows in Muzaffarabad and Hattian Bala Districts: An Analytical Study in the Light of Islamic Sharia
Abstract
This study examines the psychological, family, and legal issues faced by widows in Muzaffarabad and Hattian Bala districts, analyzed in the light of Islamic Sharia. Widowhood is not only a personal loss but also a complex socio-economic and emotional crisis that significantly affects women’s well-being and family stability. The objective of this study was to identify the key challenges faced by widows and evaluate them through Islamic teachings to propose practical solutions. A qualitative and quantitative phenomenological approach was adopted, supported by analytical and statistical methods. Data were collected from 380 widows between 2020 and 2024 through semi-structured interviews. The findings reveal that a significant proportion of widows suffer from psychological issues such as depression, loneliness, anxiety, and loss of purpose. Family-related problems include negative attitudes of in-laws, forced displacement, pressure regarding remarriage, and lack of financial support. Legally, many widows are deprived of their inheritance rights, face barriers in accessing courts, and lack awareness of legal procedures. The study highlights that these challenges are not due to shortcomings in Islamic law but arise from weak implementation and cultural practices that contradict Sharia principles. Islam ensures dignity, financial security, inheritance rights, and the freedom to remarry for widows, while strongly emphasizing social support and justice. The study suggests that addressing these issues requires a combined effort of society, religious institutions, and the state. Promoting legal awareness, ensuring enforcement of inheritance laws, providing psychological support, and encouraging positive social attitudes can significantly improve the lives of widows. Implementing Islamic principles in their true spirit can restore dignity, stability, and empowerment for widows in these regions.
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.23924812
