The Punjab Assembly has passed an amendment bill imposing a ban on child marriage, indicating a significant legislative step toward protecting the rights of minors. The bill was presented in the assembly by government member Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman and was approved after detailed discussion among both treasury and opposition members.
The legal age for marriage has been increased from 16 to 18 years. The move aims to align provincial laws with broader child protection standards and address long-standing concerns regarding early marriages in society.
During the session, members from both sides of the aisle participated in a debate on the bill, mentioning its social and legal implications. Punjab Information Minister Uzma Bukhari voiced strong objections, stating that copies of the bill had not been distributed to assembly members prior to its presentation.
She stated that it was unprecedented for lawmakers to deliberate on and pass legislation without having access to its text. “If a bill is being passed, copies should be provided to all members,” she said. She further added that she had neither received the draft of the child marriage bill nor information about the amendments being introduced.
Uzma Bukhari also emphasized the importance of proper documentation in marriage registration. She stated that in cases where a national identity card is not available, a birth certificate should be made mandatory to verify the age of individuals entering into marriage.
The Speaker of the Punjab Assembly directed that copies of the bill be immediately distributed to all members to ensure transparency and informed participation in the legislative process.
The assembly also passed a bill related to reducing traffic fines by a majority vote, reflecting ongoing efforts to address public concerns on various governance issues.
The passage of the child marriage restraint amendment bill is being seen as a progressive measure aimed at safeguarding children’s rights, promoting education, and discouraging early marriages across the province.
