In recognition of a strong nexus between early marriages and the violation of children’s rights, the Punjab Government has taken a remarkable step to address this issue through legal reforms. In this regard, the Child Marriage Restraint (Amendment) Bill 2026 is a remarkable piece of legislation, replacing the colonial Child Marriage Restraint Act of 1929 and paving the way for the protection of children’s rights. The Bill sets 18 years as the minimum legal age for marriage (for both boys and girls), seeking to establish a uniform standard in terms of early marriages. Under this Bill, child marriage is considered a serious crime, which will be non-bailable (bail lies at the discretion of the court), non-compoundable (cannot be privately settled), and cognizable (arrest can be made without a warrant). The significance of this Bill is in its broader scope as it applies to the facilitators — anyone involved, religious officiant, family member, and registrar. The court will have protective jurisdiction and strengthen the punitive measures by prescribing imprisonment for up to 7 years. 

The protective jurisdiction of the courts arises from the doctrine of “Parens Patriae,” meaning parent of the nation, where the courts will have the extra vigilance power to intervene........

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