A Punjab Assembly panel has unanimously approved the Christian Marriage Bill 2026, paving the way for mandatory registration of Christian marriages with Nadra and union councils.
The Standing Committee on Human Rights and Minority Affairs approved the legislation on Wednesday. If passed by the assembly, the bill would also set the minimum marriage age at 18 for both men and women.
The proposed law seeks to repeal and replace the colonial-era Christian Marriage Act of 1872. Bill mover Falbous Christopher said the existing law sets the minimum age at 16 for men and 13 for women.
Bill Seeks Mandatory Marriage Registration
Under the proposed legislation, Christian marriages would have to be registered with the relevant union council and Nadra. The current 1872 framework does not provide for such mandatory Nadra registration.
The bill would also require both parties to belong to the Christian faith. Ordained pastors from churches registered with the Punjab government and government-appointed marriage registrars would be authorized to solemnize marriages according to Christian rites.
New Safeguards Proposed For Christian Marriages
The legislation proposes prior written notice, public announcements, and at least two witnesses during marriage ceremonies. It would also remove restrictions on specific days or times for weddings.
Additionally, authorities would maintain detailed marriage records through standardized registers and official forms. The proposed framework also follows earlier provincial efforts to introduce online registration for Christian marriages.
Following the committee’s approval, the bill will now be presented before the full Punjab Assembly. It will require final approval before becoming law.
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