Under Muslim law in India, the rights of the mother in child custody are based on both Shari'ah principles and the legal framework provided by the Indian courts. The custody of children, particularly in the case of divorce or separation, is generally determined with the child's welfare in mind. Here are the key points regarding the rights of the mother in child custody under Muslim law: 1. Hizanat (Maternal Custody): Hizanat refers to the right of the mother to have custody of her minor children. Under Shari'ah, a mother has the right to custody of her children, particularly when they are young. The mother is generally considered the natural guardian of her children and is given preference over the father for custody, especially for children who are below the age of 7 years (for a boy) and 9 years (for a girl). This is based on the principle of ensuring the child's welfare, particularly for their emotional and physical development. 2. Preference for Maternal Custody: Boys: For a boy, the mother is generally entitled to custody until the age of 7. After that, the custody may be granted to the father, especially if it is in the best interest of the child. Girls: For a girl, the mother usually has custody until the age of 9. After this, the father may be given custody unless the court finds it not to be in the best interest of the child. However, this is not an absolute rule. The age limits are not strictly fixed in all cases, and the court may decide custody based on the child's best interests, which may include the wishes of the child, the mother's capacity to care for the child, and the general environment. 3. Best Interests of the Child: Muslim law takes the best interests of the child into account. If the mother is unable to care for the child properly or if there is evidence of neglect or abuse, the father may be granted custody. The welfare of the child is always the paramount consideration in custody decisions. 4. Rights of the Mother to Custody After Remarriage: If the mother remarries, she may lose her right to custody. The custody can then be granted to the maternal grandmother or another female relative, depending on the circumstances. However, if the child is a girl, she may still be allowed to stay with the mother even after remarriage if the court determines that the mother’s remarriage will not negatively impact the child's well-being. 5. Visitation Rights of the Father: While the mother generally has custody, the father has visitation rights. He is entitled to spend time with the child, but the exact arrangement will depend on the circumstances and the child's welfare. 6. Guardianship (Wilayah): Wilayah refers to the guardianship rights of the father under Muslim law. While the mother may have custody, the father is typically regarded as the legal guardian with authority over the child's financial, educational, and legal decisions. 7. Right to Financial Support: Regardless of custody arrangements, the father is obligated to financially support the child under Shari'ah law. This includes provisions for the child's maintenance, healthcare, education, and overall well-being. 8. Court's Role in Custody Decisions: In cases where there is a dispute regarding custody, either party can approach the Family Court or the Shari'ah court (in certain cases) for a resolution. The court will consider the well-being of the child, the mother’s and father’s abilities to care for the child, and the child’s relationship with each parent. 9. Muslim Women's Protection of Rights on Divorce Act (1986): The Muslim Women's Protection of Rights on Divorce Act gives certain rights to a divorced Muslim woman, including the right to custody of children. This law upholds the mother's right to retain custody of children in certain circumstances after divorce. 10. No Absolute Custody: Muslim law does not grant the mother absolute custody of children; it is always subject to the child's best interest. In some cases, the father may be granted custody, particularly when the mother is deemed unfit, such as if she is remarried or incapable of providing proper care. In conclusion, while Muslim law generally favors maternal custody of minor children, especially for younger children, it ultimately prioritizes the welfare of the child. Courts are empowered to review custody matters on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the overall well-being and best interests of the child.