The Punjab Province Assembly passed the Child Marriage Restraint Bill 2026 on April 27, 2026. This legislation aims to protect underage girls from forced marriages in Punjab, Pakistan.
Key facts:
- The bill sets the minimum legal age of marriage at 18 for both sexes.
- It replaces provisions of the Child Marriage Restraint Act of 1929.
- The law classifies child marriage as a cognizable, non-bailable, and non-compoundable offense.
- Individuals involved in underage marriages face up to seven years’ imprisonment and fines up to 1 million Pakistani rupees.
- Marriage registrars cannot register marriages involving minors and face penalties for violations.
- The law criminalizes child trafficking linked to marriage, holding parents or guardians liable.
- All cases under this law must be concluded within 90 days in Courts of Session.
This bill gained support from Christian rights advocates, who view it as a significant step toward protecting underage minority girls. Tehmina Arora remarked, “This marks a landmark moment not only for Punjab Province but for every girl child across Pakistan whose right to childhood has far too long been denied.” However, some lawmakers opposed it, claiming it conflicted with Islamic principles.
The legislation follows reports that Pakistan ranks eighth on Open Doors’ 2026 World Watch List of countries where it is hardest to be a Christian. Advocates stress that the law’s success will depend on its enforcement. Samson Salamat stated, “We appreciate the Punjab government for taking a step in the right direction. However, the real test will be to enforce this law in letter and spirit.” The next steps for implementation remain uncertain as officials have not disclosed specific enforcement strategies.
