How prevalent is polygamy in modern-day Pakistan?

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Polygamy, or having more than one wife, is still a topic of discussion in modern-day Pakistan. Although it is legally allowed for Muslim men, how common it is can vary across different areas and communities.
  • According to the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (PDHS) 2017-2018, 51.8% of men in the sample were in polygamous marriages.
  • A study from 2010-2013 found that around 4% of men in Pakistan practiced polygamy.
  • Polygamy is more common in rural areas and among men with higher wealth status and those working away from home.
Polygamy in Pakistan is legal under Muslim Family Laws but requires the first wife's consent and approval from the local union council.

Polygamy in Pakistan is influenced by various socio-demographic factors, including wealth, education, and cultural norms. While it is legally allowed, it is not widely accepted socially and culturally.
 
Pakistan cricketer Ahmed Shehzad during a podcast conversation:

"How many times should I get married? I'm already married. I won't marry again. I have married once. I am really happy with one wife. I have kids with her. I don't need one more wife. I know it's okay to be married four times, but I'm happy with one wife. There is no need."

"You should value it if your spouse is good. You should not do anything to break her heart just because it's a fashion or it's allowed to do so. Yes, if you feel, you are going towards a wrong path, then you should go for second marriage as soon as possible."
 
Polygamy will always be more prevalent in ultra rich or ultra poor societies which are generally farther from culture and a general lack of respect and honour for women.

The middle class is not rich enough to not respect its women while at the same time not poor enough to dishonour its women.
 
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