Punjab to criminalise underage marriage

Sun, February 22, 2026

The Punjab government is set to declare the marriage of individuals below the age of 18 a punishable offense, tabling the Child Marriage Restraint Ordinance in the upcoming session of the provincial assembly.

According to the draft ordinance, any person above the age of 18 who marries a minor will face a minimum of two years in prison and a fine of up to Rs500,000.

The legislation also targets facilitators. Guardians or parents who arrange or facilitate the underage marriage of a child could face a prison sentence ranging from two to three years.

In a significant provision, the ordinance stipulates that cohabiting or having a conjugal relationship with a minor after such a marriage will be classified as child abuse. This offense carries a stricter penalty of five to seven years in prison and a minimum fine of one million rupees.

To ensure swift justice, all cases registered under the Child Marriage Restraint Ordinance will be tried in sessions court. The presiding court will be bound to conclude the trial and deliver a verdict within 90 days.

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