Strict Penalties for Child Marriage. The Government of Punjab has introduced strict legal measures against child marriage by promulgating the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Ordinance 2026. The ordinance was officially approved by Governor Saleem Haider Khan and has taken immediate effect across the province.
With this major legal reform, child marriage has now been declared a non-bailable offense in Punjab, reflecting the government’s commitment to protecting children’s rights and ensuring stricter enforcement of marriage laws.
Immediate Implementation Across Punjab
The new ordinance has come into force immediately throughout Punjab. It replaces the outdated Child Marriage Restraint Act of 1929, which had long been criticized for weak penalties and limited enforcement mechanisms.
The ordinance was issued under Article 128(1) of the Constitution of Pakistan, as the Punjab Assembly was not in session at the time. This constitutional provision allows the Governor to promulgate an ordinance when urgent legislation is required.
Officials have stated that the new law is aimed at eliminating child marriage by introducing harsher punishments, stricter regulations, and faster judicial proceedings.
Minimum Legal Age of Marriage Set at 18 Years
One of the most important aspects of the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Ordinance 2026 is the clear definition of the minimum legal age for marriage.
Under the new law:
- The minimum age of marriage is 18 years for both males and females.
- Any marriage involving a person under 18 years of age will be considered illegal.
By setting a uniform minimum age for both genders, the government aims to ensure gender equality and prevent the exploitation of minors.
Strict Restrictions on Nikah Registrars
The ordinance also imposes strict responsibilities on nikah registrars. According to the law:
- Nikah registrars are prohibited from registering marriages involving individuals under 18.
- If a registrar violates this rule, they can face up to one year in prison and a fine of Rs. 100,000.
This measure ensures that those responsible for legally documenting marriages play an active role in preventing child marriages.
Severe Punishments for Adults Involved in Child Marriage
The new ordinance introduces heavy penalties for adults who contract a marriage with a child.
Under the law:
- Any adult who marries a child can face rigorous imprisonment ranging from two to three years.
- They may also be fined up to Rs. 500,000.
These strict penalties are intended to serve as a strong deterrent against child marriage and protect minors from exploitation.
Child Marriage Classified as Child Abuse
In a significant and progressive step, the ordinance declares that cohabitation resulting from a child marriage will be treated as child abuse.
This offense carries severe consequences:
- Five to seven years of imprisonment
- A minimum fine of Rs. 1,000,000
By classifying such acts as child abuse, the law strengthens child protection mechanisms and ensures stricter accountability for offenders.
Punishment for Guardians and Facilitators
The ordinance does not limit accountability to the individuals getting married. It also targets guardians and other facilitators involved in promoting or allowing child marriages.
Under the new provisions:
- Parents, guardians, or any person who promotes, permits, or fails to prevent a child marriage may face two to three years in prison.
- They can also be fined up to Rs. 500,000.
This clause ensures that family members or community leaders cannot escape responsibility if they play a role in arranging or supporting such marriages.
Non-Bailable and Non-Compoundable Offenses
Another critical feature of the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Ordinance 2026 is its strict legal classification.
All offenses under the ordinance are:
- Cognizable
- Non-bailable
- Non-compoundable
This means that law enforcement agencies can take immediate action without requiring a court warrant, and the accused cannot easily obtain bail. Additionally, cases cannot be withdrawn or settled privately between parties.
These provisions highlight the seriousness with which the Punjab government intends to address child marriage.
Fast-Track Trials Within 90 Days
To ensure swift justice, the ordinance mandates that cases will be tried in Courts of Session, and proceedings must be concluded within 90 days.
The fast-track mechanism is designed to prevent delays in the justice system and ensure timely accountability for offenders.
Government’s Objective Behind the Ordinance
The Punjab government has emphasized that the primary objective of this ordinance is to:
- Protect children from early and forced marriages
- Promote access to education for minors
- Ensure gender equality
- Strengthen child protection laws
Child marriage has long been associated with negative social, economic, and health consequences, particularly for girls. By introducing stricter penalties and enforcement measures, authorities aim to reduce the prevalence of this harmful practice.
Conclusion
The promulgation of the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Ordinance 2026 marks a significant milestone in child protection efforts in the province. By declaring child marriage a non-bailable offense, setting 18 years as the minimum legal age for marriage, and introducing severe penalties for violators, the Punjab government has taken a firm stance against the practice.
