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Islamabad, October 18, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Lawmakers in Pakistan's Punjab and Sindh provinces have been urged to consult church representatives before finalizing proposed Christian marriage and family laws, amid concerns that the reforms could affect religious teachings on marriage, divorce and remarriage.
A report published by Bitter Winter said that although colonial-era laws governing Christian marriages and family matters may require reform, the legislative process should balance legal protections with respect for Christian religious beliefs.
The report stressed that Christian citizens, particularly women and children, need proper marriage registration, safeguards against forced and underage marriages, due process and effective remedies against abuse and injustice.
The proposed Punjab Christian Marriage Bill 2026 seeks to replace the Christian Marriage Act of 1872. According to the report, the draft sets 18 as the minimum marriage age for men and women, requires both parties to be Christian and makes registration with the Union Council and the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) mandatory.
The bill was unanimously approved by the Punjab Assembly's Standing Committee on Human Rights and Minority Affairs on September 30 and is awaiting consideration by the full House.
In Sindh, Deputy Speaker Anthony Naveed has introduced the Christian Family Laws Bill 2026 as a private member's bill. The proposed legislation reportedly covers divorce, judicial separation, maintenance, remarriage, child custody and family property.
The report cautioned that these provisions extend beyond administrative and legal reforms into matters of Christian doctrine concerning marriage and family life.
Citing Article 20 of Pakistan's Constitution, which guarantees religious freedom and the right of religious denominations to manage their institutions, the report called for meaningful consultations with church representatives. It said NGOs could contribute expertise on human rights and legal safeguards but should not be treated as speaking on behalf of churches on matters of faith.
The report also emphasized that participation in consultations should not automatically be interpreted as church endorsement of the proposed legislation.
Given the diversity of Christian denominations in Pakistan, it called for sufficient time for churches, theologians, legal experts and women to examine the proposed laws and suggest alternatives.
The report maintained that protecting human rights and respecting Christian religious beliefs need not be conflicting objectives in the legislative process.