Withholding Mahr And Maintenance

It is incorrect for your husband not to return your Mahr. If he does not return it in this world, he will be very regretful in the Aakhirah when he will have to pay for it with his good actions. Allamah Ibn Nujaim Rahimahullah writes in his Kitaab, “Al Ashbah Wannadhir“, that a person will be commanded to give 700 accepted Salaah on the day of Qiyaamah in lieu of usurping one Daaniq (one sixth of a Dirham) from another person.

Furthermore, if he has the means to pay for it or return it and he is intentionally not repaying or returning it, then this is a form of oppression.

Abu Hurairah Radiallahu Anhu narrates that Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam is reported to have said, “It is an act of oppression on the part of a person to procrastinate in fulfilling his obligation.”

Also, it is the father’s responsibility to provide for the maintenance of the children. If he fails to do so, then due to the absence of a Qadhi, you should approach a reputable Darul Ifta or Jamiat in your town to contact your husband who will compel him to give maintenance for your children, even if he has to sell the scrap metals. You may also request the Darul Ifta or Jamiat in your town to assist you to recover you Mahr from your husband.