Every child has the right to a safe childhood, says Sarah Ahmad

Chairperson Child Protection & Welfare Bureau Punjab and Member of the Provincial Assembly, Ms. Sarah Ahmad attended as Chief Guest at the “Dialogue & Intellectual Discussion Session” on the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Bill 2026, organized by UNFPA and INGAD
Speaking at the occasion, Chairperson Sarah Ahmad stated that under the vision and leadership of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz, historic legislation has been introduced in Punjab for the protection and welfare of children and young girls. She appreciated the support and collaboration of UNFPA, UKAID, and the AAWAZ II Programme in the successful passage of the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Act 2026.
She emphasized that child marriage is not merely a social issue but a grave challenge directly connected to girls’ health, education, poverty, and overall well-being. She further stated that the Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, has ensured comprehensive and effective legislation for the protection, education, and brighter future of young girls.
Chairperson Sarah Ahmad highlighted that the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Act 2026 is a historic and comprehensive law centred on the best interests and protection of children. Under the new law, offences related to child marriage will be non-bailable, non-compoundable, and cognizable by police authorities. Furthermore, transporting underage girls outside provincial boundaries for marriage purposes will be treated as illegal trafficking. Nikah registrars involved in registering child marriages will also face strict legal action and penalties.
She noted that alongside legislation, public awareness, confidence-building, and continuous dialogue with vulnerable communities played a key role in achieving this milestone. The Punjab Government engaged religious scholars, legal experts, and medical professionals in constructive discussions to build consensus and promote awareness.
Chairperson Sarah Ahmad further stressed that the real success lies not only in the passage of the law but in its effective implementation in every district, union council, and household across Punjab. She informed participants that the Punjab Government is now working on administrative rules and interdepartmental coordination mechanisms for the effective enforcement of the law.
During her address, Chairperson Sarah Ahmad also announced the formation of a special research committee to study the increasing child protection challenges, including incidents of child killings and violence against children. She stated that child protection is not the responsibility of a single institution but a collective responsibility of society as a whole. She urged international organizations and development partners to continue supporting reform initiatives until their successful implementation.
The session was attended by experts, social leaders, and representatives from various sectors who exchanged views on effective legislation and strategies for ensuring a safe, dignified, and brighter future for children.
Concluding her address, Chairperson Sarah Ahmad reaffirmed her commitment by stating: “Every child has the right to a safe childhood.”
On the occasion, Dr. Gulnara Kadyrkulova, Deputy Country Representative, UNFPA, presented an honorary shield and certificate of appreciation to Chairperson Sarah Ahmad in recognition of her dedicated efforts toward the enactment of the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Bill 2026.