Consultation with Churches Essential for Proposed Christian Marriage Laws in Pakistan

Islamabad, October 18 (Daily Kiran) : Proposed changes to Christian marriage laws in Pakistan have sparked significant concern. A recent report emphasizes the need for the government to engage in serious discussions with churches and the Christian community before finalizing any legislation.

According to the report by ‘Bitter Winter,’ while there is a legitimate need to reform outdated British-era laws, care must be taken. Marriage, in Christianity, is not merely a legal contract but a sacred vow.

The report highlights the importance of ensuring that Christian citizens, particularly women and children, have access to proper marriage registration, protection against forced and underage marriages, and effective remedies against abuse and injustice.

The proposed Punjab Christian Marriage Bill 2026 aims to replace the 1872 Christian Marriage Act. It includes provisions to set the minimum marriage age at 18 for both men and women, mandates that both parties must be Christian, and requires registration with the Union Council and the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA).

This bill was unanimously passed by the Punjab Assembly’s Standing Committee on Human Rights and Minority Affairs on September 30 and is now awaiting a vote in the full house.

In Sindh, Deputy Speaker Anthony Naveed introduced a much broader Christian Family Law Bill 2026 as a private member’s bill. This legislation reportedly covers topics such as divorce, judicial separation, maintenance, remarriage, child custody, and family property.

The report states, “This is where administrative reforms enter the sensitive area of Christian doctrine regarding marriage, divorce, and remarriage.”

Citing Article 20 of Pakistan’s Constitution, which guarantees religious freedom and the right of communities to manage their own institutions, the report notes that while NGOs can contribute to rights and legal protections, they should not speak on matters of faith on behalf of the church.

It further asserts that inviting church representatives to meetings should not automatically be interpreted as the church’s consent to the proposed laws.

The report calls for adequate time for churches, theologians, legal experts, and women to review the drafts and suggest alternatives.

In conclusion, it states, “Pakistan should not have to choose between protecting human rights and respecting Christianity.”