Punjab Assembly Sets 18 as Minimum Marriage Age

Apr 28, 2026

63 min

Apr 28, 2026 10:31

Pakistan’s Punjab Assembly passes law setting 18 as minimum marriage age

## New Legislation in Punjab

The Punjab Assembly in Pakistan has enacted the Child Marriage Restraint Bill 2026, establishing 18 as the minimum legal age for marriage for both genders. This move criminalizes underage marriage, making it a non-bailable and cognisable offense.

## Penalties and Enforcement

Adults marrying minors face imprisonment of two to three years and fines up to Rs500,000. Parents or guardians who facilitate such marriages are subject to similar penalties. The law emphasizes treating minors involved as victims rather than offenders.

## Legislative Process

The bill, introduced by Punjab Parliamentary Affairs Minister Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman, sparked debate due to lawmakers not receiving copies beforehand. Despite objections, it passed with majority support. An amendment ensures the "best interests of the child" guide all legal actions under the law.

## Regional Context

This legislation aligns Punjab with Sindh, where the marriage age is also 18 for both genders. Other regions like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan still permit girls to marry at 16. The law replaces older provisions allowing girls to marry at 16, aiming for uniformity across the province.

## Future Steps

Authorities plan awareness campaigns and enforcement measures to ensure compliance. Punjab Child Protection Bureau Chairperson Sara Ahmed hailed the law as a landmark step towards social change.

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