The Punjab government has decided to impose new restrictions on Nikah registrars to curb the trend of underage marriages.
Under the new rules, a Nikah registrar will not be allowed to register marriages conducted outside his designated jurisdiction.
The Punjab government has also made it mandatory for Nikah registrars to be qualified and obtain at least 90% marks in the examination required for their appointment.
A Nikah Khawan (marriage solemniser) who is unable to use the internet or a mobile phone will not be eligible for appointment as a Nikah registrar.
Under the new restrictions, Nikah registrars will be required to submit registered marriage records to the relevant Union Council within seven days of the marriage.
Individuals against whom a criminal case has been registered will also be ineligible for appointment as Nikah registrars.
