ISLAMABAD  -  The National Assembly on Friday passed a bill banning child marriage in Islamabad, introduced by PPP leader Sharmila Faruqui. The law criminalizes marriage under the age of 18 for both boys and girls. Violators, including Nikah registrars, face up to one year in prison, a Rs100,000 fine, or both.

The bill cites scientific and social harm caused by child marriage and aligns with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals to end the practice by 2030.