Punjab Approves Christian Marriage Bill

News Desk
LAHORE: A Punjab Assembly panel has unanimously approved the Christian Marriage Bill 2026, which aims to mandate official registration of marriages with the National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra) and local union councils.
The bill was passed by the Standing Committee on Human Rights and Minority Affairs on Wednesday.
During the meeting led by MPA Raheela Khadam Hussain, the committee endorsed the draft legislation designed to repeal and replace the outdated Christian Marriage Act of 1872.
The proposed law seeks to modernize the legal framework governing Christian marriages in the province. Falbous Christopher, the bill’s mover, emphasized that the current law allows marriage at just 16 for males and 13 for females, and raising the minimum legal age to 18 for both genders is crucial for protecting against child marriages and ensuring genuine consent.
This legislative move is significant as it aligns with contemporary values regarding marriage and child protection, potentially impacting thousands of Christian families in Punjab.
By establishing a standardized registration process, the bill aims to enhance legal recognition of Christian marriages, which has been a long-standing issue in the community.
Next steps involve the bill being presented to the full assembly for a vote. If passed, it will mark a historic shift in the legal landscape for Christian marriages in Pakistan, reflecting a commitment to uphold human rights and modernize outdated laws.