LAHORE: The Punjab Assembly has approved the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Bill 2026 through a majority vote, officially declaring marriage below the age of 18 a cognisable offence under law.
According to the newly passed legislation any adult above 18 years found involved in contracting or arranging a child marriage will face rigorous imprisonment of up to three years along with a fine that may extend up to Rs500,000. The law also sets a minimum punishment of two years in prison for such offences.
The bill clearly states that anyone who enters into marriage with a child will be punished under strict legal provisions, reinforcing the state’s commitment to ending underage marriages.
In addition the legislation introduces strict accountability for parents, guardians, or any individuals who support, arrange, or fail to prevent child marriages. Such individuals can face two to three years of imprisonment and fines of up to Rs500,000, depending on their level of involvement.
Officials emphasized that the law also covers those who knowingly or negligently allow such marriages to take place, treating it as a serious criminal offence.
Speaking to media, Punjab Child Protection Bureau Chairperson Sara Ahmed welcomed the bill, calling it a “landmark step” aligned with the vision of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. She said the legislation marks a major move toward protecting children, especially girls, and could bring meaningful social change.
She further added that special awareness campaigns and strict enforcement mechanisms will be introduced to ensure proper implementation of the law across the province.
