Q 12:
Is it obligatory on a husband to pay Zakatul-Fitr on behalf of his wife in case there is a serious dispute between them?
A:
Zakatul-Fitr is obligatory on a man on behalf of himself as well as those for whom he has to provide, including his wife whose maintenance is a duty on him. However, if an irresoluble dispute arises between them pursuant to which a judicial decree was issued declaring her recalcitrance then her right to maintenance is forgone, (Part No. 9; Page No. 368) it will not be obligatory on him to pay Zakatul-Fitr on her behalf. In other words, Zaktul-Fitr is related to her right to maintenance, which if forgone, the former will be consequently forgone.May Allah grant us success. May blessings and peace be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family and Companions!