Punjab committee approves ordinance banning child marriage under 18

The Standing Committee on Local Government of the Punjab Assembly has approved the Punjab Child Marriage Ordinance 2026, marking a significant step toward banning child marriage in the province.

The meeting was chaired by Committee Chairman Pir Ashraf Rasool. Officials informed members that the ordinance had already received approval from the Governor of Punjab, Sardar Saleem Haider, and would now be presented in the House for final passage. Once approved by the Assembly, it will become law.

According to the ordinance, marriage under the age of 18 will be completely prohibited in Punjab. Both bride and groom must be at least 18 years old at the time of marriage, making underage marriages a punishable offence under criminal law.

The legislation introduces strict penalties for violations. Marriage registrars or officiants who register underage marriages may face at least one year in prison and a fine of Rs100,000. Individuals involved in marrying a minor could face up to three years imprisonment and a fine of Rs500,000.

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In more serious provisions, any marriage involving a person under 18 may be treated as rape, carrying a punishment of up to seven years imprisonment and a fine of Rs1 million. Additionally, those who facilitate or assist in child marriages, including guardians, may face two years imprisonment and a fine of Rs500,000.

The ordinance also states that transporting a minor out of Punjab for marriage will be punishable with seven years imprisonment and a fine of Rs1 million.

The meeting was attended by members of the committee, including representatives from the Child Protection Bureau Punjab, lawmakers from multiple political parties, and senior officials from the local government department.

Officials said the measure is aimed at strengthening child protection laws and ensuring strict enforcement against early and forced marriages in the province.