President Zardari Signs Child Marriage Restraint Bill into Law in Pakistan
Islamabad – President **Asif Ali Zardari** has signed the **Child Marriage Restraint Bill** into law, marking a significant step in protecting children’s rights in Pakistan.
Under the new law, **no nikah (marriage ceremony)** can be performed if **either of the parties is under 18 years of age**. Violators, including **nikah registrars**, could face **up to one year in prison** and a **fine of PKR 100,000**.
The law further stipulates that **any adult man marrying a girl under 18** will be subject to **up to three years of rigorous imprisonment**.
The bill was originally introduced in the **National Assembly by Sharmila Faruqui** and later tabled in the **Senate by Sherry Rehman**.
The law empowers courts to **intervene and halt underage marriages** if informed of any such incident. Additionally, any person informing the court may request **confidentiality and legal protection**, ensuring their safety.
This legislation is being hailed as a major milestone in the fight against child marriage in Pakistan and is expected to play a key role in safeguarding the rights, health, and future of children across the country.
