Lahore High Court declares marriage of girl under 18 illegal
Court issues major ruling
The Lahore High Court has declared the marriage of a girl below 18 illegal under the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Act 2026.
The case concerns Hina Aslam, whose age was reported to be around 15 years when her nikah took place.
The court ordered police to investigate the matter and take action according to the law if new evidence is found.
The ruling has brought fresh attention to child marriage Punjab and the protection of children from marriages at a young age.
Girl handed over to protection bureau
The court ordered that Hina Aslam be placed under the care of the Child Protection and Welfare Bureau.
Officials were directed to ensure her safety, welfare and best interests throughout the legal process.
The court said a child’s wishes are important, but the opinion of a minor cannot automatically be treated as a final decision because of the child’s age.
The judges stressed that laws against minor girl marriage are designed to protect children and safeguard their rights.
New law to be enforced
The court said the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Act 2026 must be applied in cases involving marriages of girls below the legal age.
The decision could become important for future cases involving under 18 marriage across the province.
Authorities will need to examine age records and other evidence carefully when allegations of minor girl marriage are reported.
The ruling also highlights the responsibility of families and officials to verify age before a marriage takes place.
Police ordered to investigate
The court directed police to examine new evidence related to the case and proceed under the law.
The girl’s father had earlier registered a case alleging that his daughter had been abducted.
The court said another FIR could be registered if fresh facts or evidence support further action.
The investigation is expected to examine the girl’s age, marriage documents and circumstances surrounding the nikah.
The case has therefore become a significant example of how child marriage Punjab laws could be enforced.
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Father approached court
Justice Munir Iqbal Duggal issued the order while hearing a petition filed by Muhammad Aslam.
The petitioner had sought registration of a case against the man who married his underage daughter.
The court’s decision has now placed the matter under further legal investigation.
The case may also draw attention to the wider issue of under 18 marriage and the need for stronger protection for minors.
What happens next?
Police will review the available evidence and decide what further legal action is required.
Hina will remain under the protection of the Child Protection and Welfare Bureau while the case proceeds.
Authorities have also been told to protect her welfare and interests.
The ruling could strengthen enforcement of the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Act 2026 and make cases of minor girl marriage subject to closer scrutiny.
