The correct answer is (a) Father.
The father is the natural guardian of a Muslim female child. This is because the father is the one who is responsible for providing for and protecting his daughter. The mother is also a guardian, but her role is secondary to the father’s. The grandfather and grandmother are not natural guardians, but they may be appointed as guardians if the father and mother are not available.
The father’s role as guardian is based on the Quran, which states that “Men are in charge of women by [right of] what Allah has given one over the other and what they spend [for maintenance] from their wealth.” (4:34) This means that the father has the responsibility to provide for and protect his daughter, and he has the authority to make decisions on her behalf.
The mother’s role as guardian is based on the hadith, which are sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad. The Prophet said, “The mother is the best guardian for her child.” (Sunan Ibn Majah) This means that the mother has a right to be involved in her child’s upbringing, and she should be consulted on important decisions.
The grandfather and grandmother are not natural guardians, but they may be appointed as guardians if the father and mother are not available. This is because they are the next of kin, and they have a responsibility to care for their grandchildren.
In conclusion, the father is the natural guardian of a Muslim female child. The mother is also a guardian, but her role is secondary to the father’s. The grandfather and grandmother are not natural guardians, but they may be appointed as guardians if the father and mother are not available.