LAHORE – In a decisive legislative move, the Punjab Assembly has passed the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Bill 2026 with a majority vote, criminalizing marriage for individuals under the age of 18. The new law classifies underage marriage as a cognisable offence, imposing strict penalties on both the adult contracting the marriage and any guardian who facilitates it.
Strict Penalties for Offenders
Under the newly enacted legislation, any adult over the age of 18 found marrying a child will face rigorous imprisonment for a term of two to three years. In addition to incarceration, offenders will be liable to a fine that may extend to Rs500,000. The bill explicitly states: “Whoever, being an adult above eighteen of age, contracts a marriage with a child, shall be punished with rigorous imprisonment which may extend to three years but shall not be less than two years and shall be liable to a fine which may extend to five hundred thousand rupees.”
Guardians and Facilitators Also Accountable
The law extends its reach to parents, guardians, or any person who plays a role in promoting or allowing an underage marriage. According to a key clause in the bill, any guardian or individual who “does any act to promote the child marriage, child abuse or permits child marriage to be solemnised, or intentionally or negligently fails to prevent it from being solemnised” will also face the same punishment of two to three years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine of up to Rs500,000.
Officials Hail the Legislation
Welcoming the passage of the bill, Punjab Child Protection Bureau Chairperson Sara Ahmed described it as a “landmark” achievement. Speaking to Geo News, she stated that the law reflects the vision of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. Ahmed emphasized that the legislation is a significant step toward ensuring the protection of girls and children across the province. She expressed optimism that the law would bring about positive social change and announced that special awareness and enforcement measures are being introduced to ensure its effective implementation.
