The Lahore High Court (LHC) has held that marrying a girl below 18 violates the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Act 2026 and ordered police to examine fresh evidence in a suspected child marriage case.
Justice Manwar Iqbal Dogar announced the written verdict on a petition submitted by Muhammad Aslam. He had asked the court to direct police to register a case against the man accused of marrying his minor daughter, Hina Aslam.
The proceedings revealed that Hina was about 15 when she entered into nikah. Her father had already reported her alleged abduction to police and an FIR was registered. However, he told the court that evidence of her underage marriage had since emerged and those involved should face legal action.
The LHC overturned the Justice of Peace’s earlier refusal to order registration of a case. It instructed police to assess the newly presented evidence and act in line with the law.
The court said investigators must establish whether the evidence points to a criminal offence and take action against any person found responsible.
The judgment also ordered officials to hand Hina over to the Child Protection and Welfare Bureau. The authorities must ensure her protection and make decisions based on her welfare and best interests.
The court noted that children should have their views heard, but the wishes of a very young child cannot alone decide such matters. It said child marriage laws exist to protect children and prevent situations that could threaten their safety and well-being.
The LHC directed the relevant departments to take immediate steps to protect Hina.
The court further clarified that police may register another FIR when fresh evidence reveals an underage marriage, even if a separate FIR has already been registered over the child’s alleged abduction.
Assistant Advocate General Anwar Hussain represented the Punjab government during the proceedings.
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