April 9, 2003	Wednesday	Safar 6, 1424

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ISLAMABAD, April 8: The Law and Justice Commission said on Tuesday it wanted to tackle the social problem of excessive expenditure on marriage ceremonies and dowry, through an enactment of a new law, and asked the people to give its suggestions.

The commission, headed by the Chief Justice of Pakistan, invited the public suggestions on prohibiting excessive expenditure on marriage ceremonies and dowry.

A Supreme Court bench, headed by Chief Justice Shaikh Riaz Ahmad, had struck down the law prohibiting excessive expenditure on marriage ceremonies. The apex court, however, has not written the detailed judgment even after the passage of many months.

The commission in its announcement on Tuesday said the practice of incurring excessive expenditure on marriage ceremonies has been a cause of constant agony and suffering for many families, specially those of the low income and the poor.

It said the same could be said about the practice of excessive dowries being demanded and given, and its public display in weddings.

“Regrettably, these practices are fast spreading to every nook and corner of the country, affecting all segments of the population.”

It said the draft law would be submitted to the government for implementation. The key points of the proposed draft law are: fixing a maximum limit of expenditure on marriage ceremonies and allowing either one dish to be served or only cold, hot, soft to guests attending the marriage ceremony.

Prohibiting all kinds of ostentatious displays, including decoration/illumination of building/streets, other than the house where the marriage ceremony is held, use of fire arms, explosive devices and display of fire works.

Restricting the amount/value of dowry and bridal gifts to reasonable limit and prohibiting its display in wedding ceremonies.

The draft law would provide for a list of dowry and bridal gifts to be prepared and furnished to Nikah Registrar who shall file it in the office of Nazim.

It would further provide that all property, including dowry, bridal gifts and presents given to the bride, shall absolutely vest in such woman.

The law would prohibit receiving of presents by holders of public offices, members of legislatures and public officials in Grade 17, and above.

It would further be prescribing stringent penalties for violation of the law and prescribing an effective procedure for its enforcement.

The commission asked the general public to forward suggestion for any changes or further improvement to the draft law.

The suggestions can be forwarded to the Pakistan Law Commission, located at the Supreme Court Building.