Punjab Assembly Approves Bill Prohibiting Marriages Below 18

In Punjab Assembly, lawmakers approved a new bill prohibiting marriages under the age of 18 after securing a majority vote during a recent session in Lahore. The legislation, titled “The Punjab Marriage Restraint Bill 2026,” was introduced by the provincial Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and passed following a detailed debate among members.

The bill aims to standardize the minimum legal marriage age for girls at 18 years across the province, aligning it with broader efforts to curb child marriages. However, the proposal sparked differing opinions within the assembly. Government member Zulfiqar Ali Shah voiced opposition, suggesting that marriages involving individuals under 18 should be permitted with court approval. He argued that cultural and religious considerations must be taken into account, questioning whether restricting early marriage could lead to other social issues. He also emphasized that laws should not override long-standing traditions.

In response, Information Minister Uzma Bukhari defended the bill, highlighting concerns about the lack of awareness among young girls regarding their own marriages. She pointed out that the Federal Shariat Court had previously supported similar legislation in Sindh, reinforcing the importance of legal safeguards.

Bukhari stressed that both mental and physical maturity are essential factors in marriage, arguing that individuals should wait until reaching the legally defined age rather than seeking exceptions. She also raised concerns about the exploitation of young girls, noting that they often become victims in cases involving violence or harmful cultural practices. According to her, such traditions should no longer be tolerated in modern society.

The minister further noted that during the tenure of former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the minimum marriage age was 16, but the new bill increases it to 18. She added that proper identification, such as a national ID card or birth certificate, should be mandatory at the time of marriage.

Bukhari also criticized the legislative process, stating that assembly members had not received copies of the bill or its amendments in advance. Following her concerns, the Speaker instructed that all members be immediately provided with the necessary documents before final proceedings.

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