Archive · 5 Dec 2025
SC Rules Divorced Muslim Woman Can Recover Marriage Gifts
The Supreme Court of India recently made a big decision.
They said that a divorced Muslim woman named Rousanara Begum can get back the money and gold that were given to her at the time of her marriage.
This includes Rs 17.67 lakh and 30 bhori of gold.
The court said that the money and gold were given to her, not her husband, and she should get them back.
The Supreme Court also said that the earlier court (Calcutta High Court) was wrong to say otherwise.
They told the husband to give the money directly to the woman's bank account within six weeks, or he will have to pay extra money as interest.
This decision is important because it helps protect the rights of divorced Muslim women in India.
The Supreme Court ruled that a divorced Muslim woman can recover money and gold given at her marriage.
The case involved Rousanara Begum and her former husband S.K. Salahuddin, married in 2005 and divorced in 2011.
The woman claimed Rs 17.67 lakh, including 30 bhori of gold, which were given by her father at the time of marriage.
The Supreme Court set aside the Calcutta High Court's decision, which had denied her claim.
The husband was directed to transfer the amount to the woman's bank account within six weeks, with a 9% interest penalty for non-compliance.
- Who
- Rousanara Begum (divorced Muslim woman) and her former husband S.K. Salahuddin
- What
- Supreme Court ruled that the woman can recover money and gold given at the time of marriage
- When
- Judgment delivered on December 2, 2025
- Where
- India, with the case originating in Calcutta High Court and decided by the Supreme Court
- Why
- To ensure dignity and financial protection for divorced Muslim women as per the 1986 Act
- Parties Involved
- Rousanara Begum (Wife), S.K. Salahuddin (Husband)
- Marriage Year
- 2005
- Divorce Year
- 2011
- Claim Amount
- Rs 17.67 lakh (including 30 bhori of gold)
- Court Decision
- Supreme Court ruled in favor of the woman
- Act Cited
- Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Divorce) Act, 1986
- Compliance Deadline
- 6 weeks to transfer amount with 9% interest if delayed