In a landmark move aimed at protecting children’s rights and strengthening legal safeguards, the Government of Punjab has enforced a new Child Marriage Ordinance 2026, officially setting 18 years as the minimum legal age for marriage across the province. The ordinance received formal approval from the Governor of Punjab and has come into immediate effect, introducing strict penalties for violations.
The new law marks a significant amendment to the decades-old Child Marriage Restraint Act of 1929, signaling a major policy shift in the province’s approach to early marriages.
Clear Legal Age and Zero Tolerance Policy
Under the newly promulgated ordinance, marriage of any individual below the age of 18 is now strictly prohibited. The law makes it mandatory that both the bride and groom must be at least 18 years old at the time of nikah (marriage contract).
Officials have described the move as a decisive step toward eliminating child marriage practices that have persisted in certain areas despite existing legal frameworks. By explicitly defining the minimum age for both genders, the ordinance seeks to remove ambiguities and ensure uniform enforcement.
Authorities have emphasized that child marriage will now be treated as a punishable criminal offense, with legal action initiated under relevant criminal statutes.
Strict Penalties for Violators
The ordinance introduces stringent punishments targeting all individuals involved in facilitating underage marriages. Any religious cleric or individual who solemnizes a child marriage will face up to one year of imprisonment and a fine of Rs 100,000.
A person who contracts marriage with a minor will face significantly harsher penalties. The law prescribes up to three years in prison along with a fine of Rs 500,000. In certain aggravated cases, punishment may extend up to seven years of imprisonment for marriages involving individuals under 18.
The ordinance also addresses attempts to bypass provincial law by relocating minors for marriage. Any person found transporting a child to another province for the purpose of conducting an underage marriage can face up to seven years in prison and a fine of Rs 1 million.
Guardians or parents who attempt to arrange or facilitate a child marriage may face up to two years of imprisonment. The inclusion of parents and legal guardians within the scope of accountability reflects the government’s intent to tackle the issue at its roots.
Expanded Powers for Enforcement Authorities
To ensure effective implementation, the ordinance grants special and expanded powers to the administrative authorities. Law enforcement agencies and district officials are now authorized to intervene proactively to prevent child marriages before they occur.
Nikah registrars have also been brought directly under the purview of the law. They will be legally responsible for verifying the ages of both parties prior to solemnizing or registering any marriage. Failure to comply may result in criminal prosecution.
Legal experts suggest that empowering local administrations with broader authority could significantly strengthen enforcement mechanisms, especially in rural areas where underage marriages are more likely to take place.
Reforming a Colonial-Era Law
The Child Marriage Restraint Act of 1929, enacted during the British colonial era, had long been criticized for its limited penalties and outdated provisions. Although amendments were introduced over time, child rights advocates argued that the law lacked deterrent value due to relatively minor punishments.
The Child Marriage Ordinance 2026 seeks to modernize the legal framework by aligning penalties with contemporary standards of child protection and human rights. Provincial officials have indicated that the ordinance will be presented before the Punjab Assembly in its upcoming session for formal legislative approval.
If ratified by the assembly, the ordinance will become a permanent statute, further cementing the province’s commitment to ending early marriages.
Social and Legal Implications
Child marriage has long been associated with adverse social outcomes, including interrupted education, health risks, and economic dependency. Advocacy groups have welcomed the ordinance, describing it as a progressive step toward safeguarding minors from exploitation and forced unions.
However, experts caution that legislation alone may not fully eradicate the practice without parallel efforts in public awareness, education, and community engagement. Effective implementation will require coordination among law enforcement, social welfare departments, and civil society organizations.
The ordinance’s introduction also positions Punjab among regions taking stronger legal action against child marriage. Policymakers hope that the enhanced penalties and expanded enforcement authority will serve as a strong deterrent.
A Turning Point in Child Protection Policy
With the enforcement of the Child Marriage Ordinance 2026, Punjab has signaled a firm stance against underage marriages. By clearly defining 18 as the legal minimum age and imposing substantial penalties on violators, the provincial government aims to protect vulnerable children and uphold their fundamental rights.
As the ordinance moves toward legislative approval, attention will shift to its practical enforcement and the broader societal response. For now, the measure represents a significant milestone in child protection reform within Pakistan’s most populous province.
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