LHC Rules: Underage Marriage Is Illegal
The Lahore High Court has declared the marriage of a 15-year-old girl illegal under the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Act 2026. The court ruled that a marriage involving a person below the age of 18 is illegal and directed the police to conduct a fresh investigation into the alleged child marriage.
Father Approached the Court
The case was brought before the Lahore High Court by Muhammad Aslam, who sought the registration of a case against the man accused of marrying his minor daughter, Hina Aslam. The girl’s father had previously registered a kidnapping case. However, he later presented fresh evidence related to his daughter’s alleged underage marriage and requested further legal action.
Girl Was 15 at the Time of Nikah
During the court proceedings, evidence confirmed that the girl was around 15 years old at the time of her nikah. Justice Munawar Iqbal Duggal ruled that her status as a minor was covered by the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Act 2026. The court also noted that a minor’s purported consent could not automatically make an underage marriage lawful.
Justice of Peace’s Decision Set Aside
The Lahore High Court set aside an earlier decision by a justice of the peace, who had rejected the father’s request for the registration of an FIR. The court ruled that the existence of an earlier kidnapping case did not prevent authorities from registering another FIR if fresh evidence disclosed a separate offense. Police were directed to investigate the matter and proceed strictly in accordance with the law.
Police Ordered to Conduct Fresh Investigation
The court directed the police to examine the new evidence and determine whether a cognizable offense had been committed. The investigation will focus on the circumstances surrounding the alleged marriage and the possible involvement of those connected to it. Further legal action will depend on the findings of the investigation.
Girl Handed Over to Child Protection Authorities
The Lahore High Court also ordered that the minor girl be placed under the care of the Child Protection and Welfare Bureau. The authorities were directed to ensure her safety, welfare, and best interests while the legal matter is investigated.
Child Protection at the Centre of the Ruling
The court stressed that laws against child marriage are intended to protect the rights, safety, and welfare of children. The ruling has reinforced the legal position under Punjab’s 2026 child marriage law that marriage involving anyone below the age of 18 is illegal.
A Significant Legal Development
The Lahore High Court’s decision is an important development in the enforcement of laws against child marriage in Punjab. The fresh police investigation will now determine whether criminal offenses were committed in connection with the marriage of the 15-year-old girl and who, if anyone, should face legal action.
