Q. If an inlaw creates fitna, repeatedly. I do not have any contact with them. I am in peace after a long time. Am I obliged to go and talk / see her when she is sick

A. (Insufficient data. How are you defining fitna? We are to assume that you are correct in its definition!)

Options:

• If you were emotionally abused, etc, and a credible third party has acknowledged violations placed upon you by your in-laws, then you need not be part of any individuals’ wrongful behavior. In such a situation, you may stay away from the oppressor(s). This is the right Islam awards you. However, to excuse yourself from innocent people would not be the right thing to do.
• Although you may not be required to see your in-laws, nor does sharia impose upon you to interact with them, making dua for them would be a sign of sincerity. To make dua would prove that you were indeed oppressed, had it not been the case, you would still keep contact with them.  Should you find it difficult to wish them well, then in all fairness, you are possibly the oppressor or contributor towards your given adverse situation.
• Although you are not obligated to ‘go and talk to them, or visit them when sick,’ to do so with your husband would prove noble. Such visits need not be prolonged. They can last for as little as few minutes. This would prove beneficial are greatly rewarding. Done with sincerity, it would bring mercy and tranquility in your life.
• If you were told not contact your in-laws by your husband, or by them, for you to do so would constitute a sin. If your husband or in-laws are wrong in their request, the sin would be upon them. You cannot interfere with his family if you were specifically informed not to do so.
• You must know the difference between maintaining biologically oriented family ties and that of in-laws. If your mother-in-law is also your aunt, etc. then you must be more patient and tolerant towards her. To be intolerant in this last option would be to let go of what is called silah rahmi (family ties). This is something Islam frowns upon.
• The fact that you have sent us your query demonstrates your need for seeking good relations with your in-laws. Should this be the case, do not let shaytan get the better of you. Proceed with caution and ask Allah (Subhanahu Wata’Ala) for guidance and tolerance in mending your family issues. You can start with polite short phone calls or invited visits. Do not let trivial matters splinter your family up. Stay focused on wanting to make Allah (Subhanahu Wata’Ala) happy with your good decision making policies.

May Allah (Subhanahu Wata’Ala) bless you and all the families that are linked to you, Ameen.

Allah Certainly Knows best.