Who is responsible for the dowry (mahr)?
The question, as received
Who is responsible for the dowry? If the bride refuses to consummate marriage who is responsible for the dowry? The bride refused to let her husband touch her for two months. He tried but she did not let him. Her father took her away from her husband’s house still a virgin.
The answer
In principle, the payment of the dowry is the sole responsibility of the husband.[i] Dowry becomes binding by the contracting of nikah itself.
In short: the mahr is the husband's sole responsibility and becomes binding by the nikah itself.
Explanation
Every person is unique. Some find certain tasks easy whereas others find it difficult. The husband and wife should communicate and discuss their personal issues. The husband should try and understand the wife. She may be fearing something or be very shy. Nevertheless, all parties involved must resolve the situation in a cordial manner. If there is any difficulty in understanding one another, you may consult one who is an expert in this field.
And Allah knows best.
Mufti Faraz Adam
References
iاعلم أن المهر يجب على الزوج للزوجة شرعا بمجرد العقد (الأحكام الشرعية في الأحوال الشخصية ج1 ص195 دار السلام)
Based on the Hanafi school and on the question as it was asked. Another mufti may reach a different conclusion. Read the disclaimer.