“Unfortunately, Pakistani mothers have failed to raise men properly,” says IHC judge

Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani of the Islamabad High Court presided over a case concerning the custody of a child, during which he made important remarks about the upbringing of men in Pakistani society.

During the hearing, Justice Kayani invited a young child to sit beside him, emphasizing his effort to understand the child’s perspective directly.

The court expressed its concern over children being brought into legal battles, stating that while verdicts can determine custody, "courts cannot instill love in anyone."

"It is very easy to handle children, whether by the mother, father, or a third party," Justice Kayani noted, adding that children often begin to dislike others when they receive love from only one side.

He further remarked that a child aged seven or older is capable of forming their own opinions.

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To determine the child's preference, Justice Kayani asked the child to express who they wanted to live with. "When parents do not respect each other, children lose respect for them as well," the judge observed.

Highlighting broader societal issues, Justice Kayani stated, "Unfortunately, mothers in Pakistan have failed to raise men properly." He emphasized that courts are not venues for revenge, nor are lawyers tools to serve such purposes.

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The court questioned the parents about their occupations and work schedules. The father, a director in a government institution, stated his duty hours were from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., while the mother, also employed by a government institution, mentioned she was working under supervision.

Justice Kayani instructed the father to facilitate meetings between the mother and her family to avoid misunderstandings. Furthermore, the court advised that both parents should consult a psychiatrist to address their personal and familial issues effectively.