New ‘Diyat’ Amount announced in Pakistan after Rs1.3million increase

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani government has notified value of Diyat, also known as blood money, from Rs6.7million to Rs8.1million for the fiscal year 2024-25.

A notification shared by Finance Divisions aid the new ‘Diyat’ amount has been set at Rs8,103,955 for this year in wake of rising market price of silver.

The new Diyat amount is now equivalent to the value of 30,630 grams of silver. This adjustment is required under subsection (2) of Section 323 of the Pakistan Penal Code, which mandates that the Diyat amount be revised in accordance with fluctuations in the market price of silver.

What is Diyat/Blood Money in Pakistan?

The concept of blood money, or Diyat holds importance in Islamic law as it is a form of financial restitution designed to offer a solution for the families of victims while promoting peace and reconciliation within communities.

Diyat is sort of compensation paid to family of a murder victim, allowing them to receive financial restitution rather than seeking revenge. This practice aims to prevent cycles of violence, encouraging families to settle disputes amicably and avoid further bloodshed.

Islamic jurisprudence outlines specific guidelines for determining the amount of diyat, which can vary based on the victim’s status, circumstances surrounding the crime, and other relevant factors. While it offers a path for restitution, it does not absolve perpetrators of moral responsibility for their actions.