Human Rights Commission expresses concern over Council of Islamic Ideology’s opposition to Child Marriage Bill.
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has strongly criticised the Council of Islamic Ideology’s (CII) objections to the recently passed Islamabad Capital Territory Child Marriage Restraint Bill, calling it an obstacle to the enactment of necessary legislation to protect children.
HRCP expressed deep concern over the CII’s stance on the bill that bans marriage below the age of 18. The bill was recently passed by the National Assembly and aims to protect minors, especially girls, from exploitation, forced marriage and abuse.
According to HRCP, the law fills a long-standing legal gap and is in line with Pakistan’s constitutional requirements and international human rights obligations. Declaring child protection as incompatible with religion not only undermines the fundamental rights of every child but also reflects a one-sided and narrow-minded interpretation of Islamic principles.
The Council of Islamic Ideology, in its consultation response, has objected to the bill, stating that under Sharia law, puberty is considered sufficient for marriage and no age limit can be set in this regard. The Council is of the view that the requirement of 18 years of age is not in line with Sharia injunctions.
HRCP, opposing this position, said that the state has a duty to legislate in the best interests of children to prevent dangerous trends such as early marriage, which are not only harmful to children’s health but also contribute to lack of educational opportunities and gender inequality.
HRCP called on the federal government to not accept any kind of pressure on this law and to ensure its prompt and full implementation. The statement concluded by saying that the state must refuse to bow to conservative positions that endanger the lives and futures of children.
