Minimum Marriage Age Set at 18 for Both Boys and Girls
Punjab Governor Saleem Haider Khan has promulgated a new ordinance declaring child marriage a non-bailable offence. The law sets 18 years as the minimum legal age of marriage for both males and females.
The move removes the previous gender-based distinction in Punjab’s marriage laws. Earlier, the minimum marriage age was 18 for men and 16 for women under the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Act, 1929.
The new law is titled the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Ordinance 2026. It comes into effect immediately across the province. The ordinance was issued under Article 128(1) of the Constitution because the Punjab Assembly is not currently in session.
Under the updated law, strict penalties have been introduced. Offenders involved in child marriage can face up to seven years in prison. They may also be fined up to Rs1 million.
All offences under the ordinance are now cognisable, non-bailable, and non-compoundable. This means police can act without a warrant. Bail will not be granted easily. Cases cannot be withdrawn through compromise.
Trials will be conducted exclusively by Courts of Session. Authorities have directed that cases be concluded within 90 days. The government says this will ensure swift justice and stronger child protection.
Strict Penalties for Nikah Khawans, Guardians, and Adults
The Punjab child marriage ordinance places responsibility on multiple parties. Nikah khawans, or marriage registrars, are now barred from registering child marriages.
If a registrar violates the law, they can face up to one year in prison. They may also be fined up to Rs100,000.
Adults who marry a child will face rigorous imprisonment. The sentence will range from two to three years. A fine of up to Rs500,000 can also be imposed.
The ordinance goes further by criminalising cohabitation resulting from a child marriage. Such cohabitation will be treated as “child abuse.” The punishment ranges from five to seven years in prison. A minimum fine of Rs1 million will also apply.
The law also targets child trafficking linked to marriage. Strict penalties have been introduced to curb exploitation. Guardians will be held accountable if they promote or fail to prevent underage marriages.
If a guardian or any person facilitates a child marriage, they will face two to three years of rigorous imprisonment. They may also be fined up to Rs500,000. This applies to both intentional and negligent actions.
The government has made it clear that no individual involved will escape liability. The ordinance strengthens enforcement and closes previous legal gaps.
Aim to Modernise Child Protection Laws in Punjab
According to the statement of objects and reasons, the ordinance aims to modernise child protection laws in Punjab. It seeks to eliminate gender discrimination in the legal marriage age.
Officials say the reform strengthens safeguards against exploitation and abuse. The equal minimum age of 18 aligns with broader child rights standards.
The government believes the new framework will help prevent forced and early marriages. It also aims to reduce child abuse linked to underage unions.
By declaring child marriage a non-bailable offence, authorities hope to send a strong deterrent message. Swift trials within 90 days are expected to improve accountability.
The Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Ordinance 2026 marks a significant legal shift. It introduces tougher penalties and clearer responsibilities. The province now has one of the strictest legal frameworks against child marriage in the region.
