President Asif Ali Zardari has officially signed into law the Islamabad Capital Territory Child Marriage Restraint Bill, 2025, a landmark piece of legislation aimed at curbing child marriage in the federal capital.
The bill, a private member’s initiative, was passed by Parliament and formally assented to by the President, as per a notification dated May 29, 2025. The new law marks a significant step toward protecting children’s rights in Pakistan and aligns with global human rights standards.
Senator Sherry Rehman, a key supporter of the legislation, expressed her gratitude on social media, thanking President Zardari for standing firm despite mounting pressure. "Proud moment for Pakistan," she wrote, acknowledging the efforts of all women and men who supported the bill through a long and challenging journey.
MNA Nafisa Shah also hailed the development as a "crucial milestone" that will have a positive impact on women’s rights as well as maternal and child health in general.
In her statement, she reminded that Sindh was the first province to pass such legislation and urged other provinces to follow suit to ensure broader protection against child marriages across Pakistan.
The Child Marriage Restraint Bill sets a legal minimum age for marriage and introduces penalties for violations, aiming to reduce early and forced marriages that disproportionately affect girls.
Rights activists and civil society organizations have hailed the move as a major victory in the fight against child exploitation and a milestone in Pakistan’s legislative history.
