MANSEHRA: A grand jirga attended by ulema and tribesmen from five major tribes settled in Torghar for centuries has decided to eliminate practices contrary to Islamic injunctions and contributing to poverty and social inequality in the district.
“The practice of giving dowry beyond the limits prescribed in Islam has become a social stigma. It is a form of overspending that has been depriving many men and women of marriage. This forum, through committees to be established, will ensure that no one violates these limits,” Maulana Matiur Rehman told the jirga held in Judbah, the district headquarters of Torghar, on Tuesday.
The jirga also made it clear that they would not take the law into their own hands. Instead, they would promote what they described as Islamic values through awareness and the social boycott of those who violate the agreed norms.
After deliberations on social issues in light of long-standing traditions, the jirga announced the formation of village-level committees that would work under its supervision, irrespective of political affiliations.
“Our centuries-old traditions, where tribesmen respected the family system and adhered to jirga decisions, are rapidly eroding, and people are suffering as a result,” Maulana Matiullah said.Speaking about the decisions, he said that nikah ceremonies would be held in mosques only, and nothing beyond light refreshments would be served to participants.
