As per Lawkidunya, In Pakistan, the child custody laws have traditionally favored mothers, but fathers’ rights movements are pushing for reforms. The Guardians and Wards Act 1890, which governs child custody disputes, gives courts significant discretion, leading to inconsistent judgments.

Challenges Faced by Fathers

– Lack of clear guidelines: The Act doesn’t provide explicit rules for child custody, making it difficult for fathers to navigate the system.
– Biased towards mothers: Traditionally, mothers have been granted custody of young children, with fathers often getting custody of sons after age 7 and daughters after puberty.
– Limited rights: Fathers may face difficulties in obtaining visitation rights or custody, even if they’re financially stable and able to provide a suitable environment.

Fathers’ Rights Movement

– Advocating for reforms: Fathers’ rights groups are pushing for amendments to the Guardians and Wards Act 1890 to make child custody laws more equitable.
– Raising awareness: These groups are working to raise awareness about the challenges faced by fathers in child custody disputes and promote a more nuanced understanding of parental rights.
– Supporting fathers: Fathers’ rights organizations are providing emotional support, guidance, and resources to help fathers navigate the complex child custody system.

Recent Developments

– Increased recognition of shared parenting: Pakistani courts are increasingly recognizing the importance of shared parenting and joint custody arrangements.
– More emphasis on child welfare: Courts are prioritizing the welfare of the child, considering factors like emotional attachment, education, and financial stability when making custody decisions.
While there’s still a long way to go, the fathers’ rights movement in Pakistan is gaining momentum, and recent developments suggest a shift towards more equitable child custody laws.