President Zardari Signs Landmark Child Marriage Restraint Bill into Law for Islamabad

In a significant step towards advancing children’s rights, President Asif Ali Zardari has signed the Islamabad Capital Territory Child Marriage Restraint Bill, 2025 into law. The legislation, passed by Parliament earlier this month, officially became law following presidential assent as per a notification issued today.

The bill, introduced as a private member’s initiative, aims to curb the practice of child marriage within the Islamabad Capital Territory by establishing a legal minimum age for marriage and imposing penalties on those who violate the law. It is seen as a critical tool in protecting minors—especially young girls—from early and forced marriages.

Widespread Support from Lawmakers and Activists

Senator Sherry Rehman, a vocal supporter of the bill, celebrated the development on social media, calling it a proud moment for Pakistan. She commended President Zardari for his unwavering support despite facing political resistance.

“A proud moment for Pakistan. Grateful to President Zardari for signing the Child Marriage Restraint Bill into law despite all odds,” she wrote. “This is a victory for every woman and girl who deserves a childhood and a choice.”

MNA Nafisa Shah also welcomed the move, describing it as a “crucial milestone” in the broader struggle for women’s and children’s rights.

“This law will have a lasting impact not only on protecting girls from early marriage but also on improving maternal and child health,” she stated.

She highlighted that Sindh was the first province in Pakistan to enact such legislation and urged other provinces to follow suit to ensure nationwide protection for minors.

Key Provisions of the Law

The Islamabad Child Marriage Restraint Act establishes:

• A minimum legal age for marriage in the federal capital (typically 18 years for girls and boys).
• Penalties for those facilitating or conducting child marriages, including parents, clerics, and marriage registrars.
• Mechanisms to report and prevent forced or underage marriages through law enforcement and child protection agencies.

Praised by Civil Society

The law has been widely welcomed by civil society organizations, human rights groups, and child welfare advocates who have long campaigned against child marriage in Pakistan.

“This is a major victory in the fight against child exploitation,” said a representative of a child rights NGO. “It shows that Pakistan is taking real legislative steps to protect its children and align itself with international human rights norms.”

Next Steps

As Islamabad implements this legislation, activists are calling on Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan to introduce similar legal protections. The law sets a precedent and opens the door for stronger, nationwide reforms on child protection and gender equality.