The Lahore High Court has granted post-arrest bail to a man accused of sending his wife to another man in exchange for settling a debt, while issuing a detailed judgment highlighting the absence of a specific legal provision addressing marital exploitation.
Justice Muhammad Amjad Rafiq of the Lahore High Court issued a 13-page detailed verdict, declaring it a judicial precedent and urging lawmakers to introduce clear legislation on the issue.
The court observed that the Pakistan Penal Code does not contain a specific offence covering marital exploitation, noting that different provisions may apply depending on the circumstances where a spouse is allegedly forced into illegal or coercive acts.
The judgment emphasized that formal criminal legislation is required to define and address marital exploitation as a distinct offence. It further recommended that Parliament introduce laws specifically aimed at protecting women from such forms of abuse.
The court granted bail to the accused, identified as Muhammad Ajmal, against surety bonds of Rs500,000. The decision was based on factors including delay in proceedings, lack of medical and video evidence, and bail already granted to a co-accused.
The case has been highlighted as a significant legal observation, with the court stressing the need for stronger statutory protections for victims of domestic and marital abuse.
