Islam provides detailed rules for the maintenance of wives and children, which form the basis of Pakistani law on the subject.

According to Surah Al-Baqarah, Ayat 233:

• Mothers should breastfeed their children for two full years if they wish to complete the nursing period.

• The father must provide reasonable maintenance, including food and clothing, during this time.

• No one should be asked to bear more than they are capable of.

• Neither mother nor father should suffer because of the child.

• The father’s heirs have the same responsibility.

• If both parents mutually agree to wean the child early, there is no blame.

• Using a wet-nurse is allowed if fair payment is made.

“Divorced mothers will breastfeed their children for two full years. The father is responsible for reasonable maintenance and clothing. No one bears more than they can handle, and neither parent should be harmed because of the child. Mutual agreement to wean early is allowed. Fair payment to a wet-nurse is permitted. Be mindful of Allah, who observes all actions.” [Al-Baqarah 2:233]

Pakistani courts strictly apply these Islamic principles. In 2022 PLD 840, the court confirmed that under Islamic law, a father has a legal, moral, and religious duty to maintain his children until the age specified by law or Sharia, as directed by the Quran.