THE ROLE OF ASSOCIATED ECONOMIC FACTORS IN DENIAL OF FEMALE RIGHTS OF INHERITANCE IN PAKHTUN SOCIETY

Abstract

This study was based on positivistic methodology and it aimed to ascertain the role of various associated economic factors in the denial of female right of inheritance in ‘Pakhtun’ Society. The study was conducted in three Union Councils of District Charsadda namely Shaikho, Nisatta and Dargai. Interview schedule was used as a tool for data collection and 120 respondents were purposively selected from the study universe. The data was analyzed and presented both at univariate and bivariate levels with the help of using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and Chi-Square test statistics. The study results concluded that women are economically dependent on men and they have no role in financial affairs of the family. Women right of inheritance was denied by all social classes inhabiting in the area, but they are compensated with cash and dowry in place of their share in inheritance. The main reason of such denial includes division of land and absences of women contribution in the financial resources of the family in the form of paid jobs. Awareness needs to be created among the women population regarding inheritance, inclusion of reading materials in the syllabus about inheritance, promotion of basic knowledge and education, implementation of state laws and provision of legal support to women in matters related to inheritance were forwarded as some of the policy recommendations.