Punjab Government Criminalizes Under-18 Marriages With Heavy Penalties

On February 22, 2026, the Punjab government announced the introduction of the Child Marriage Restraint Ordinance, aimed at criminalizing marriages involving individuals under the age of 18. The ordinance imposes a minimum of two years in prison and fines up to Rs. 500,000 for adults marrying minors, with parents or guardians facilitating such marriages facing two to three years in prison. Notably, cohabitation with a minor is classified as child abuse, punishable by five to seven years in prison and fines starting from Rs. 1 million. All cases will be tried in sessions courts, ensuring verdicts are delivered within 90 days to promote swift justice. This legislative move aligns Punjab with federal laws and existing regulations in Sindh, emphasizing the protection of children from exploitation (ProPakistani, The News).