Committee Backs Major Legal Reform Despite Internal Opposition
A key parliamentary panel in Punjab has approved a major legal reform aimed at ending child marriages. The Standing Committee on Local Government and Community Development passed the Child Marriage Restraint Bill 2026 during a meeting on Monday.
The session was chaired by PML-N lawmaker Pir Ashraf Rasool. Members of the Women Parliamentary Caucus also attended the meeting to observe the proceedings. The bill sets 18 years as the minimum legal age for marriage for both males and females across Punjab.
Previously, the law allowed men to marry at 18 and women at 16 under the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Act of 1929. However, the new bill removes this gender difference and introduces a uniform age requirement.
Earlier this year, Punjab Governor Saleem Haider had issued the bill as an ordinance. However, the ordinance will expire in May unless the Punjab Assembly formally approves it. Therefore, the latest committee approval marks a crucial step toward making the law permanent.
Despite the progress, the bill faced resistance within the committee. Chairperson Rasool and member Zulfiqar Shah raised objections. They argued that the law may conflict with constitutional and religious freedoms. Nevertheless, the majority of members supported the bill and pushed it forward.
Strict Penalties Introduced to Prevent Underage Marriages
The proposed law includes strict penalties to discourage child marriages. It bars nikah registrars from conducting or registering underage marriages. If they violate the law, they could face up to one year in prison and a fine of Rs100,000.
In addition, adults who marry children will face tougher punishment. The bill proposes imprisonment of at least two years, which may extend to three years, along with fines reaching Rs500,000.
Moreover, the legislation takes a strong stance on child protection. It classifies cohabitation resulting from child marriage as child abuse. This offence carries a prison term of five to seven years and a minimum fine of Rs1 million.
The bill also targets those who facilitate or allow such marriages. Parents or guardians who promote or fail to prevent underage marriages can face two to three years of imprisonment and financial penalties.
Importantly, all offences under the bill are declared cognisable and non-bailable. Courts of Session will handle these cases, and trials must conclude within 90 days. As a result, the law aims to ensure swift justice.
Debate Continues Over Religious and Social Concerns
While the bill seeks to protect children, some lawmakers have raised concerns. Zulfiqar Shah argued that the law may conflict with religious interpretations that allow marriage after puberty. He also highlighted socio-economic realities faced by poor families.
According to him, some parents marry off daughters early due to financial hardship or safety concerns. Therefore, he suggested adding exceptions to the law. However, other members strongly opposed this idea. They warned that exceptions could lead to misuse and weaken enforcement.
As the debate continues, Shah has announced plans to propose amendments when the bill reaches the assembly floor. Meanwhile, supporters insist that a strict law is necessary to eliminate child marriage and protect vulnerable children.
Overall, the bill represents a significant shift in Punjab’s legal framework. It aligns with global efforts to end child marriage and promote gender equality. The final decision now rests with the Punjab Assembly, where the bill will be presented for approval.
