Age Verification Made Mandatory for All Marriage Applications
Authorities in the former FR Peshawar region have introduced a strict new framework aimed at preventing underage marriages and improving the accuracy of marriage registration processes. The directives, issued by the assistant director of the local government department, instruct all village and council secretaries to implement the rules without exception.
The move comes as concerns rise over undocumented and unverified marriages taking place in various parts of the region. Under the new policy, no marriage application involving a minor can be processed unless complete age verification is provided. Officials are required to check at least one authentic document—such as a NADRA registration form, school certificate, or birth certificate—before granting approval.
The order emphasizes that these checks must be followed rigorously to completely eliminate the possibility of approving any underage marriage, strengthening legal protection for minors and increasing administrative accountability.
Stricter Rules for Divorce Cases, Widow Remarriage, and Second Marriages
The new guidelines also target improper documentation in cases where individuals are remarrying. Marriage officials must now verify divorce certificates and khula documents before processing applications involving previously dissolved marriages.
For widows, attaching the deceased husband’s death certificate has been made mandatory. This measure aims to stop fraudulent claims and ensure legal clarity in widowed individuals’ remarriage cases.
Additionally, anyone seeking a second marriage must obtain permission from the competent authority. This requirement is designed to promote transparency, prevent misuse of legal loopholes, and ensure compliance with local laws governing multiple marriages.
Digital Records, MIS Uploads, and Accountability Measures Introduced
To enhance documentation and long-term traceability, the assistant director has directed marriage registrars to maintain complete and updated records in the official council marriage register. All documentation must be attached with the annual marriage registration return to eliminate missing or incomplete files.
Moreover, officials must upload marriage records into the MIS system immediately, ensuring digital records are accurate and accessible. Delays in file processing or registration updates have been explicitly banned, making timely registration compulsory.
Village secretaries have been assigned an additional responsibility: educating chairmen, council members, and marriage registrars about the new rules. This training is intended to ensure consistent understanding and enforcement at every level of local governance.
Authorities believe these reforms will close existing gaps in the system, reduce manipulation, and significantly strengthen protections against illegal underage marriages. The updated procedures, they say, will promote transparency, enforce accountability, and uphold the rights of minors across the region.
