LHC displeased over child marriage law enforcement

Lahore High Court (LHC) on Monday expressed dissatisfaction over the reply of the local government regarding the enforcement of under-age marriage law in the province, reported the 24NewsHd TV channel. 

Justice Anwarul Haq Pannun conducted the hearing of petitions of two women Rukhsana Bibi and Irshad Bibi seeking the recovery of their minor daughters. 

The counsel for the Punjab government submitted the report on behalf of the local government secretary as it was sought by the court during the last hearing. 

The court was told that action has been initiated against nine nikah khawans and three union council secretaries under Peeda Act 2006. The court expressed dissatisfaction with the report of the local government. 

The court also asked the local government department to hold proper training for the Nikah Khawans and union council secretaries to avert child marriages across the province.

The girl's statement should not be believed to be an adult, written evidence should be sought, the court said.

The court further directed that proof of date of birth should be seen while registering the marriage of girls.

“ID card, B form or school certificate should be seen for age determination, the court added.

Justice Anwarul Haq ordered to continue proceedings against underage grooms, marriage registrars, and marriage witnesses.

The court again issued an order to submit a report on the implementation of the court order to the local government secretary on June 23. "What further action was taken against those who got married at a young age should be informed at the next hearing, the court said.

The court remarked that the Child Marriage Prevention Act, of 1929 exists, but marriages of children are on a rampage with impunity. “Effective action is not being taken against those responsible,” the court held.

The court adjourned the further hearing of the case till June 23.

 

Reporter: Malik Ashraf