Balochistan imposes a minimum sentence of two years for marrying a minor

The Balochistan Assembly passed the Balochistan Child Marriage Restriction Act, 2025, which introduces stricter penalties for those involved in child marriages. Under the new law, an adult man who enters into a child marriage (and anyone who facilitates it) will face two to three years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine ranging between Rs 100,000 and Rs 200,000.

The law defines a child as any person under 18 years of age and declares that all child marriages are illegal and, in various circumstances, void ab initio, that is, invalid from the beginning. The law nullifies all conflicting laws in force throughout the province and takes effect immediately.

Strong penalties for violators

• Under the law, any adult male who enters into a child marriage faces two to three years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine of Rs 100,000 to Rs 200,000.
• Persons who carry out, organize, promote or incite child marriage face the same punishment.
• Courts can add an additional three-month prison sentence if fines are not paid.
• Nikah Khawans, Nikah registrars and union council secretaries are now legally required to verify the Computerized National Identity Cards (CNIC) of both parties before solemnizing a marriage. Failure to do so is an offense punishable by up to one year in prison and a fine of up to Rs 100,000.

All offenses under the Act are cognizable, non-bailable and non-compoundable, meaning the police can act without a court order, bail cannot be granted easily and cases cannot be resolved privately. Only a First Class Judicial Magistrate can try crimes.

The law also declares child marriages void if the minor is kidnapped, sold, seduced, forced or trafficked for matrimonial or immoral purposes. Children born from such marriages will be considered legitimate, and their maintenance will be the responsibility of the father.

Repeal of the 1929 law

The law formally repeals the colonial-era Child Marriage Restriction Act of 1929 in Balochistan, although ongoing cases under the old law will continue until concluded. Under the new legislation, the provincial government must develop detailed regulations within six months.

The opposition calls the bill “anti-Islamic”

Opposition lawmakers tore copies of the bill when it was introduced, claiming it violates Islamic law. Speaking to the media after its passage, Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti said the majority of assembly members supported the bill, reflecting the strength of the democratic process.

He noted that the bill was examined by relevant committees of the assembly over the past six months and was approved by the cabinet before being tabled for vote. “Differences of opinion are an inherent feature of democracy; however, legislation is always enacted in the best interest of the public,” Bugti said.

He emphasized that the government prioritizes consensus-driven lawmaking, ensuring that all draft laws are subject to wide consultation and a transparent process. The Prime Minister reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the development of Balochistan and the welfare of its citizens.

Opposition leader Younus Aziz Zehri criticized the legislation and reiterated that his party, JUI-F, would not support any law that he believes violates Islamic teachings. Following their protest, opposition lawmakers went on strike while chanting slogans against the newly adopted bill.