ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – The Federal Shariat Court has been moved against the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Ordinance 2026, which criminalises marriage below the age of 18.
The petition was filed by Mufti Muhammad Aslam through his counsel, naming the Government of Punjab, including the governor through the secretary, and other relevant authorities as respondents.
The petitioner argued that Section 2-D, Section 3 and other related provisions of the ordinance are in conflict with the Constitution and Islamic Sharia, contending that declaring marriage under 18 years of age a criminal offence is against Islamic teachings.
The petition stated that although the state has the authority to legislate for administrative matters and public order, interference in matters governed by Sharia cannot be permitted.
The petitioner requested the court to strike down Sections 2-C, 2-D and other related provisions of the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Ordinance 2026 and sought an order to suspend implementation of the ordinance until a final verdict is issued.