In a historic decision, the Punjab provincial government of Pakistan approved the Punjab Sikh Anand Karaj Marriage Registrar and Marriage Rules, 2024, on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone as Pakistan becomes the first nation to enact a dedicated law governing the legal framework for Sikh marriages, previously not covered under existing legislation.
The decision was made during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, marking what Punjab’s first Sikh Minister for Minorities and Human Rights, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, described as a historic day for Sikhs.
"Today, Punjab has become the first province in the world to implement the Sikh Marriage Act,” Arora told reporters.
He said that Sikhs from other provinces and countries could now come to Punjab for marriage registrations. Arora also disclosed plans for submitting the Hindu Marriage Act for cabinet approval in the coming months.
The act becomes important as Pakistan is home to a Sikh population of around 20,000 to 40,000.
The majority of Pakistani Sikhs reside in the province of Punjab, particularly in cities like Lahore, Nankana Sahib, and Peshawar. They form an important religious minority in Pakistan, contributing culturally and economically to the nation.
Meanwhile, Arora highlighted his efforts since 2017 to secure approval for the Sikh Marriage Act, noting the Punjab government’s broader initiatives to promote interfaith harmony and update educational curricula to eliminate hate material.
Under the provisions of the Sikh Marriage Act, both Sikh partners must be at least 18 years old.
Disputes among couples will be mediated by a five-member Sangat, with the union council chairman selected from the bride's council.
Procedures for divorce include notifying the chairman in writing, followed by a mandatory conciliation period.
The Act aims to address legal complications arising from unregistered marriages, particularly those concerning inheritance rights.
Follow us
