Lahore – The Punjab government has proposed a landmark measure aimed at curbing child marriages, suggesting that any marriage involving a boy or girl under the age of 18 be declared a criminal offense. The initiative, set to be presented in the upcoming session of the Punjab Assembly, is part of a broader effort to protect children from exploitation, abuse, and early responsibilities that negatively impact their education, health, and overall development.

According to the proposed Child Marriage Restraint Ordinance, individuals over the age of 18 who marry a minor girl or boy would face severe legal consequences. The ordinance stipulates that any adult entering into such a marriage could face a minimum of two years imprisonment, along with a fine of up to 500,000 Pakistani Rupees. This move reflects the government’s commitment to aligning provincial law with international standards, including the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which Pakistan has ratified.

The ordinance also emphasizes accountability for parents or guardians who arrange or facilitate child marriages. Guardians or parents involved in arranging a marriage for a minor could face two to three years in prison, ensuring that those responsible for perpetuating child marriages are held legally accountable. This provision addresses a critical concern in Pakistani society, where cultural norms and family pressures often result in underage marriages despite existing laws.

Furthermore, the proposed legislation makes clear that maintaining a marital or cohabiting relationship with a child after such a marriage constitutes child abuse, with stringent penalties. Offenders in these cases could face five to seven years imprisonment and a minimum fine of one million Rupees. This provision is intended to safeguard children from ongoing exploitation and abuse that can occur even after formal marriage, particularly in households where child brides may be treated as dependents rather than individuals with rights.

The ordinance also introduces a mechanism to expedite legal proceedings in cases of child marriage. All such cases will be heard in session courts, which will be required to resolve cases within 90 days. This expedited timeline is intended to ensure swift justice and prevent prolonged legal battles that can leave children vulnerable. By mandating quick trials, the law seeks to provide timely intervention to protect minors and deter potential offenders.

The proposed legislation reflects a growing recognition within Pakistan of the detrimental effects of child marriage. Research consistently shows that early marriage significantly limits educational and economic opportunities, increases health risks, and often perpetuates cycles of poverty and gender inequality. Child brides are more likely to experience maternal mortality, domestic violence, and social isolation, while child grooms may also face early financial responsibilities and social pressures that disrupt their personal development.

Punjab, the country’s most populous province, has historically faced high rates of child marriage, particularly in rural areas where traditional customs and societal norms dominate. According to data from various non-governmental organizations, a significant number of girls are married before reaching 18, often as a means of settling family disputes, alleviating economic burdens, or conforming to cultural expectations. By introducing clear criminal penalties, the provincial government aims to challenge these norms and create a legal deterrent against such practices.

Advocates of the ordinance have welcomed the proposal, noting that criminalizing child marriage sends a strong message about the state’s commitment to protecting minors. Legal experts highlight that the ordinance’s comprehensive approach—addressing both adults who marry minors and parents or guardians who facilitate the practice—could help reduce child marriages if implemented effectively. Additionally, the provision classifying post-marriage cohabitation with a minor as child abuse ensures continued protection for minors, a critical aspect often overlooked in conventional marriage laws.

The proposed law also aligns with national efforts to combat child abuse and promote children’s rights. Pakistan has several laws addressing child protection, but enforcement has historically been inconsistent. Experts note that the success of the Child Marriage Restraint Ordinance will depend not only on legislation but also on robust monitoring, awareness campaigns, and cooperation from law enforcement agencies and local communities.

In recent years, civil society organizations and human rights activists have urged provincial governments to strengthen child protection laws, emphasizing that legal loopholes and social pressures allow child marriages to continue despite existing regulations. By proposing this ordinance, Punjab is taking a significant step toward closing these gaps and ensuring that minors’ rights are upheld.

The upcoming session of the Punjab Assembly will determine whether the ordinance moves forward into law. Lawmakers are expected to debate its provisions, including penalties, enforcement mechanisms, and the role of guardians in facilitating marriages. If passed, Punjab will join a growing list of provinces in Pakistan actively pursuing stricter measures to combat child marriage and protect minors from exploitation.

In conclusion, the Child Marriage Restraint Ordinance represents a crucial effort to prevent child marriages, hold offenders accountable, and provide legal safeguards for children in Punjab. By criminalizing the marriage of anyone under 18, imposing strict penalties on offenders, and expediting judicial proceedings, the ordinance aims to create a safer environment for minors and promote their rights to education, health, and personal development.

The provincial government and lawmakers will now face the challenge of implementing the ordinance effectively, ensuring that cultural and social barriers do not undermine its objectives. If enforced properly, this initiative could significantly reduce child marriages in Punjab and serve as a model for other provinces across Pakistan.