Supreme Court Upholds Divorced Muslim Women’s Right to Dowry & Gifts

In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court of India has ruled that divorced Muslim women are entitled to reclaim all money, gold, jewelry, and gifts brought into their marriage.

The bench, comprising Justice Sanjay Karol and Justice N. Kotiswar Singh, declared these items as the woman’s personal property, ensuring they must be returned after divorce.

The case centered on Roshanara Begum from West Bengal, who married in 2005 and later filed for divorce in 2011. She sought the return of Rs 17.67 lakh in cash and 30 tolas of gold jewelry given during her marriage.

While the Calcutta High Court had earlier dismissed her claim, the Supreme Court overturned that decision, emphasizing that laws must be interpreted with social justice and constitutional values of equality and dignity.

The Court directed her husband to deposit the full amount and jewelry into her bank account within six weeks, warning of a 9% annual interest penalty for delays.

This ruling not only restores Begum’s rights but also sets a precedent for similar cases, strengthening the financial security and dignity of divorced Muslim women across India.

Legal experts believe the verdict will have far‑reaching social impact, particularly in smaller towns and rural areas where women often face discrimination and economic dependence.

The judgment is being hailed as a significant step toward women’s empowerment and equality under the law.