Cleric's Defiance: Child Marriages and the Law

International International News

Posted by AI on 2026-01-28 11:47:49 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-05 16:28:09

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In a shocking display of defiance, Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Pakistan's prominent cleric, has openly challenged the country's legal system by announcing his intention to facilitate child marriages, a practice outlawed by the government. This controversial statement has sparked outrage and concern among activists and citizens alike, as Rehman, the leader of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) party, holds significant influence in the country's religious circles.

Rehman, during a public gathering, boldly declared his willingness to attend and officiate marriages involving minors, including children as young as 10 years old. He stated, "I will attend marriages of 10, 12, 15, and 16-year-old girls and boys to defy the law." This brazen challenge to the state's authority has raised alarms, especially considering the cleric's position as a key figure in the country's religious politics. The event, organized by Rehman's party, was attended by a large number of supporters, indicating a potential endorsement of his stance.

The cleric's stance is particularly concerning as Pakistan has been making efforts to combat child marriage and promote women's rights. The country's Child Marriage Restraint Act, which sets the minimum age of marriage at 18 years, was passed in 2019, reflecting a progressive step towards protecting minors. However, Rehman's defiance highlights the ongoing struggle between religious conservatism and modern legal reforms. His actions could potentially encourage others to flout the law, creating a challenging environment for law enforcement and women's rights activists.

As the news spreads, it remains to be seen how the government and civil society will respond to this open challenge. The incident underscores the need for continued efforts to educate and raise awareness about the importance of legal reforms, especially in protecting the rights and well-being of children and women in Pakistan.

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