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