Punjab Government Moves to Criminalize Child Marriage Through New Ordinance Latest Update 2026

The Punjab Government has taken a bold step to protect children’s rights by introducing a new legal framework that criminalizes marriages involving anyone below the age of 18 in the province. This important move aims to close long-standing legal gaps, set stronger punishments for violators, and align provincial law with child protection standards nationwide. The updated ordinance has drawn nationwide attention from experts, families, and rights advocates. 0

Aspect	Details
Main Law	Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Ordinance 2026
Minimum Age for Marriage	18 years (boys & girls)
Adult Marriage Penalty	2+ years jail + fine
Cohabitation as Abuse	5–7 years jail + fine
Registrar Punishment	1 year jail + fine
Trial Court	Sessions Court
Case Resolution Timeline	Within 90 days
Official Source	Ehttps://pcsw.punjab.gov.pk/

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What Is the New Child Marriage Ordinance?

The Child Marriage Restraint Ordinance 2026 criminalizes marriages in Punjab where either the bride or groom is under 18. Written information from official provincial channels and top 10 Google sources confirms that the draft law will soon be tabled in the Punjab Assembly for approval. 1

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Key Legal Changes Enforced

The minimum legal age for marriage for both boys and girls has been fixed at 18.
Adults marrying minors face strict penalties — including imprisonment starting at two years and fines up to PKR 500,000.
Cohabitation with a minor after such marriages is treated as child abuse, with stronger jail terms and fines.
Parents, guardians, or facilitators who arrange child marriages may also face prison terms.

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Why This Law Matters to Families

This ordinance marks a significant legal update in Punjab’s approach to ending child marriage. It removes previous gender-based age limits and ensures equal protection for boys and girls under a unified age standard. The law hopes to deter forced and early marriages that disrupt education, health, and social development.

Step-by-Step Enforcement Process

Report any suspected child marriage to local authorities.
Police register a criminal case under the ordinance.
Sessions Court hears the case within 90 days.
Court issues verdict and determines punishment.
Punishment is enforced, including jail time and fines.

Penalties and Support Under the Ordinance

Adults marrying minors: Minimum 2 years imprisonment + fines possible.
Cohabitation after underage marriage: 5–7 years jail + heavy fines.
Marriage registrars (Nikah Khawans) violating law: Up to 1 year imprisonment and fine.
Parental or guardian facilitation: 2–3 years jail + fine for involvement.

Official Information Sources

This article is informed by the official government news releases and the latest reports from credible national news outlets including ProPakistani, Aaj News, Pakistan Today, and Dunya News. These sources provide detailed summaries of the ordinance, legal clauses, and enforcement expectations. 2

Helpline & Contact

Punjab Women Protection Authority: +92-42-111-927-927
Child Rights Helpline (Punjab): 1098
Punjab Police Emergency: 15
Punjab Legal Aid Office: +92-42-9920-XXXX

Conclusion

The Punjab Government’s move to criminalize child marriage through a strict ordinance is a landmark legal step. By clearly setting 18 as the minimum legal age for marriage and assigning strong penalties for violators, Punjab aims to protect the rights of children, prevent exploitation, and foster safer futures. Families and communities are encouraged to understand and support the law, ensuring its full effect in protecting children throughout the province.