Hafiz Hamdullah, a senior leader of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI), has sparked a fresh political and legal debate after making controversial remarks regarding marriage laws and constitutional authority in Pakistan. Speaking to media outside the Parliament House in Islamabad, Hamdullah claimed that while he had no personal intention of contracting a second marriage, he could choose to marry a 16-year-old girl if he were angered and decided to challenge the authority of the state.
During his media interaction, Hamdullah stressed that he would not follow any law that, in his view, contradicts the principles of the Quran and Sunnah. He argued that Pakistan is an Islamic Republic and that Islamic teachings should take precedence over statutory laws where differences arise. According to him, any legislation that goes against Islamic injunctions cannot be binding on citizens who prioritize religious principles.
The JUI leader further stated that the Constitution of Pakistan itself forbids the enactment of laws that contradict Islamic teachings. He claimed that his stance was rooted in constitutional provisions and Islamic ideology, adding that laws conflicting with Quranic principles should be rejected. His comments reignited an ongoing national debate on the interpretation of Islam within Pakistan’s legal framework.
Hamdullah also suggested that JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman should organize mass weddings for young people after returning from his foreign visit. He proposed that such weddings could involve individuals who have reached the age of eighteen but are still below the legal age for marriage under existing laws. He argued that this could help address social challenges while promoting what he described as Islamic values.
In addition to discussing marriage laws, Hamdullah made strong remarks about the current political environment. He claimed that certain members of Parliament had “rebelled” against the Constitution and should face proceedings under Article 6. Article 6 of the Constitution relates to high treason and carries severe legal consequences for those found guilty of subverting constitutional order.
His remarks have triggered widespread reaction across political, legal, and social circles, with many questioning the implications of such statements on child protection laws and constitutional governance. Legal experts have pointed out that Pakistan’s minimum age of marriage laws are designed to safeguard children and align with international obligations. The controversy is expected to fuel further discussion on the balance between religious interpretation and state law in Pakistan.
Also read: Sinners Tops the Oscars with 16 Historic Nominations
