Child Marriage Now Illegal in Islamabad as President Approves Landmark Bill
News Desk
Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari has formally signed the Islamabad Capital Territory Child Marriage Restraint Bill, 2025 into law, marking a major milestone in Pakistan’s efforts to combat child marriage and safeguard children’s rights.
The legislation, a private member’s bill, was passed by Parliament and received presidential assent on May 29, 2025, according to an official notification. The law establishes a legal minimum age for marriage in the Islamabad Capital Territory and introduces strict penalties for violations, aiming to curb early and forced marriages—practices that have long disproportionately affected girls.
Senator Sherry Rehman, a prominent advocate for the bill, took to social media to celebrate the development, calling it a “proud moment for Pakistan.” She praised President Zardari for withstanding pressure and commended the perseverance of all those who championed the bill through a prolonged and often challenging process.
Read more: https://thepenpk.com/cii-declares-minimum-marriage-age-bill-against-islamic-teachings/
MNA Nafisa Shah also welcomed the enactment, describing it as a “crucial milestone” for women’s rights and public health. She noted that Sindh had been the first province to legislate against child marriage and called on other provinces to follow Islamabad’s lead to ensure nationwide protection for children.
Civil society organizations and child rights activists have hailed the new law as a significant achievement in Pakistan’s legislative landscape and a major step toward aligning national laws with international human rights standards.
The passage of the bill signals growing momentum for child protection reforms in the country and highlights the role of political will and civic engagement in driving change.
