The Balochistan Assembly has passed the Balochistan Child Marriages Restraint Act 2025, introducing the province’s toughest penalties yet for anyone involved in child marriages.
The law defines anyone under 18 as a child and makes all underage marriages illegal, with some categories void from the start. It overrides any conflicting provincial laws and is now in force.
Under the act, any adult man who marries a minor can face two to three years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine of Rs100,000 to Rs200,000. The same punishment applies to anyone who conducts, arranges, promotes, or assists such a marriage.
Courts may add three more months in jail if the offender fails to pay the fine. The law also places new responsibilities on Nikah Khawans, Nikah Registrars, and union council secretaries, who must verify the CNICs of both parties before solemnising a marriage.
Not verifying ages is now a criminal offence, punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to Rs100,000. All offences under this act are cognizable, non-bailable, and non-compoundable, allowing police to act without warrants, limiting bail, and blocking private settlements.
Cases will be heard only by a First Class Judicial Magistrate. The act also nullifies child marriages involving kidnapping, coercion, trafficking, or enticement for marriage or immoral purposes.
Children born from such marriages will be recognised as legitimate, and fathers will remain responsible for their maintenance.
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