Forced marriage of underage orphan sisters foiled in Punjab

Police successfully intervened to stop the forced marriage of two underage orphan sisters in Sultan Colony, Kot Addu.

According to police officials, the marriage was being arranged without the girls’ consent. The girls’ grandfather and uncle, who were attempting to forcibly marry them off, were arrested at the scene.

A formal case has been registered against them.

Initial investigations reveal that the forced marriage was motivated by a property dispute. The suspects allegedly sought to exploit the minors by marrying them off in a manner that would protect family assets.

The girls have now been safely handed over to their mother, police confirmed. Authorities say further investigation is underway to ensure accountability and protect the rights of the minors involved.

Read more: Dadu police foil underage marriage bid, recover 13-year-old bride

In May, the Lahore High Court, in a significant ruling, mandated punitive measures against Nikahkhawans (Nikah registrars) implicated in officiating marriages involving underage girls.

Justice Anwar-ul-Haq Pannu announced the judgement in response to a plea filed by Azmat Bibi.

Within its decree, the Lahore High Court emphasized its prior mandates aimed at curbing underage unions. Stressing the imperative nature of documentary evidence delineating the age of brides during the Nikah ceremony, the court underscored the accountability of Nikahkhawans and witnesses.