The Complexities of Second Marriages in Pakistan: Cultural, Religious, and Social Perspectives
Second marriages in Pakistan are a multifaceted issue influenced by Islamic teachings, cultural resistance, and societal expectations. While Islam allows men to marry up to four wives under strict conditions, Pakistani culture, shaped by pre-partition Hindu traditions and economic realities, largely opposes polygamy. Men pursue second marriages for various reasons, including personal desires, family pressures, and social expectations. Meanwhile, women often resist due to fears of neglect, financial insecurity, and social stigma. Legal frameworks like the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance impose restrictions on polygamy, but societal attitudes continue to evolve amidst changing marriage trends.