Sardar Saleem Haider Khan
Photo: Wikipedia (CC)
On February 11th, the governor of Punjab signed the "Child Marriage Restraint Ordinance 2026" into effect. This recently implemented law aims to raise the minimum legal age for marriage to 18 and establish penalties for violation. Those advocating for the protection of the country's youth describe the legislation as a "moral and social victory." (For more details, see our previously published report.)
Child marriage has long baeen a serious concern in Pakistan, particularly for young Christian girls who are frequently kidnapped, forcibly converted to Islam, and then married to their abductors against their will. Numerous reports documenting cases of such abuses against our young Pakistani sisters in Christ can be found at our country profile.
Although currently in effect, this ordinance is temporary. The newly implemented law will automatically lapse in May – 90 days after its introduction – unless approval is granted by the Punjab Assembly. The legislation has already passed through the standing committee, but now awaits a final vote by the Assembly. Opponents argue that the restraint ordinance conflicts with their personal freedoms, as well as interpretations of Islamic law, which permit the marriage of young girls upon reaching puberty.
- Pray that members of the Punjab Assembly will seriously take into consideration the devastating consequences and trauma posed to vulnerable girls (and their concerned families) if this life-protecting legislation is not swiftly and rightfully approved.
- Lift up the many young victims who have already been forcibly converted and married, asking God to provide greatly needed healing, protection and restoration in their lives.
- Pray that Christians in this predominantly Muslim nation would not only be strengthened and encouraged in the midst of pressure and opposition, but also empowered by the Holy Spirit to serve as willing instruments of the Lord's compassion, forgiveness and saving grace.
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