Punjab proposes to set minimum Christian marriage age to 18
Committee approves proposed bill
The Punjab Assembly’s Standing Committee on Human Rights and Minority Affairs has unanimously approved the Christian Marriage Bill 2026.
The meeting was chaired by MPA Raheela Khadim Hussain, while Falbous Christopher, who moved the bill, presented its main points.
The proposed legislation aims to replace the Christian Marriage Act 1872 with a new legal framework. It includes changes to the Christian marriage age and official registration procedures.
The committee’s approval is an important step, but the bill is not yet law. It will now be presented before the Punjab Assembly for consideration.
Minimum marriage age proposed at 18
One of the main points of the Christian Marriage Bill 2026 is to set the minimum marriage age at 18 for both Christian men and women.
Falbous Christopher said the existing law sets the minimum age at 16 for Christian men and 13 for women.
The proposed Punjab Christian marriage law would introduce one minimum age for both genders.
The change aims to provide equal legal protection and update rules that have remained in place for many years.
Registration with NADRA and Union Councils
The bill also proposes making registration of Christian marriages compulsory with Union Councils and the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA).
Christopher said the existing legal framework does not allow such registration.
Under the proposed Punjab Christian marriage law, official registration could help couples keep a formal record of their marriage and access related legal documents.
The Christian marriage age proposal is one part of a wider effort to update the rules governing Christian families.
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New procedures for marriage ceremonies
The bill also includes written notice and declaration procedures before a marriage takes place.
At least two witnesses would be required during the ceremony. It also proposes maintaining official marriage records through standard registers and forms.
Registered churches and designated marriage registrars would be authorised to conduct Christian marriages.
These measures are intended to make the process clearer and protect the free consent of both parties.
What happens next?
The committee’s approval does not mean the Christian Marriage Bill 2026 has become law.
The Punjab Assembly must still consider and approve the proposal before it can take effect.
If passed, the Punjab Christian marriage law would introduce new requirements for marriage age, registration and ceremonies.
The proposed Christian marriage age of 18 would apply equally to men and women under the bill.
