On May 16, 2025, Pakistan’s National Assembly passed a historic bill banning child marriages in the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT), criminalising any marriage involving individuals under 18.
The law imposes stringent penalties on violators, including parents, guardians, clerics, and marriage registrars, to protect minors from early marriages and associated harms.
The legislation declares registering or solemnising marriages of those under 18 a criminal offence. Before proceeding, Nikah registrars must verify both parties’ Computerised National Identity Cards (CNICs). Failure to comply or registering an underage marriage carries up to one year in prison, a Rs100,000 fine, or both. Facilitating such marriages incurs five to seven years of rigorous imprisonment, a fine up to Rs1 million, or both.
Historic Win for Girls' Rights!
The #NationalAssembly has passed landmark bill banning child marriage in ICT!
Spearheaded by @sharmilafaruqi, it criminalizes marriage under 18—for all genders.
A major leap for children's rights. 🙌
#EndChildMarriage #GirlsNotBrides 💜 pic.twitter.com/yE4xpX9ecc
— UN Women Pakistan (@unwomen_pak) May 16, 2025Marrying a girl under 18 to an adult male is punishable by two to three years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine. Sexual relations in such marriages, even with consent, are classified as statutory rape. Coercing or enticing a minor into marriage is treated as sexual assault, and those employing or sheltering a child in a marriage face three years in prison and fines.
The law aligns with Pakistan’s efforts to curb child marriages, which UNICEF reports affect 80% of girls in rural areas by age 18. Human rights activists praised the move, calling it a step toward gender equality. The bill strengthens protections for minors and promotes human rights in the capital.
The legislation sets a precedent for nationwide reforms, with advocates urging similar laws across provinces. Implementation and enforcement will be key to its success.
