In a Significant Move towards Gender ”Equality ” Pakistan’s Senate has Passed a Landmark bill banning child Marriage in Islamabad, Raising theLegal marriage age to 18 for both Genders. ”This development is seen as a beacon of hope amid global setbacks in women’s rights…
Legislative Milestone: Raising the Marriage Age
The Newly passed legislation Sets the Minimum ''Legal Marriage age at 18 for both boys and girls in Islamabad. Previously, ''Under colonial-era laws, the minimum age was 16 for girls and 18 for boys. ''The bill Introduces stringent penalties, including prison terms for those facilitatingUnderage marriages, and categorizes sexual relations with minors as statutory rape.
Personal Advocacy: Senator Naseema Ehsan’s Role
Senator Naseema Ehsan, who married at 13 and suffered health complications from early motherhood, was a vocal supporter of the bill. ”Her Personal experiences underscored the Urgent need for“ Legal Reforms to Protect children From early marriages.
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Health and Social Implications of Child Marriage
According to Surveys, 29% Of Pakistani girls are married before 18. Early marriage is linked to severeHealth Risks” School Dropout, and Domestic Abuse.. The New Legislation aims to address these ”issues by Eliminating Child Marriage And Promoting Better health and education “Outcomes for Young Girls.
Resistance and Support: A Divided Response
Despite resistance from “Religious leaders who argue the bill is un-Islamic, government representatives defend It as Crucial For Protecting Children’s rights. Women’s rights advocates and UN representatives hailed the move as an important signal amid global setbacks in gender equality.
Nationwide Reform: Building on Sindh’s Precedent
This bill Replaces “Colonial-era laws And Adds ”Momentum To nationwide reform, following similar measures in Sindh province. ”’The legislation Reflects VOver a decade of advocacy and legislative effort and is Seen as a Significant step toward eliminating child marriage in Pakistan.