The National Assembly passed a bill on Friday by a majority vote, outlawing child marriages in Islamabad.
The bill, aimed at eradicating child marriage, was introduced by Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) senior leader Sharmila Faruqui. According to the legislation, any marriage involving individuals under the age of 18–regardless of gender–will be considered a criminal offense.
It stated that scientific and social research has confirmed the detrimental effects of child marriage on both boys and girls, constituting a violation of their fundamental rights.
Under the new law, Nikah registrars will be legally obligated not to register marriages involving minors. Any individual who registers or solemnizes such a marriage without proper documentation will face imprisonment for up to one year, a fine of Rs100,000, or both.
The bill aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which include the elimination of child marriage by 2030. It is designed to ensure greater protection of children’s rights.
