LAHORE: In a recent ruling, the Lahore High Court (LHC) emphasized that Nikah registrars would face consequences if they allowed the marriage of underage girls. The decision came following a petition filed by Azmat Bibi, seeking the recovery of her 14-year-old daughter.
Justice Anwaarul Haq Pannun, issuing the verdict, highlighted the court’s clear instructions to halt minor marriages. The court stressed that at the time of marriage, Nikah registrars, solemnizers, and witnesses must provide documents verifying the bride’s age.
Expressing concern over the persistence of child marriages despite court orders, the LHC pointed out the apparent disregard for its directives by registrars and solemnizers.
Consequently, the court directed authorities to take stringent action against those involved in facilitating underage marriages.
The National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) Chairperson, Nilofar Bakhtiar, lauded the LHC’s decision and advocated for a nationwide ban on the marriage of minors. Bakhtiar reiterated the NCSW’s efforts to advocate for legislation setting the minimum marriage age at 18 and requiring a bride’s identity card during marriage proceedings.
Pakistan’s commitment to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals includes ending underage and forced marriages by 2030, aligning with international standards recognizing 18 as the minimum age for marriage for both genders.
