In a significant development aimed at bringing the social and cultural practices of the Kalash community into a legal framework, the government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has introduced a proposed bill to regulate marriage registration and related matters.
Provincial Minister for Local Government Meena Khan Afridi presented the Kalash Marriage Bill 2026 in the provincial assembly.
Under the proposed legislation, the clear and explicit consent of both parties has been made mandatory for the solemnisation of marriages within the Kalash community.
The bill also stipulates that both the bride and groom must be at least 18 years old and mentally sound at the time of marriage. Additionally, it proposes a complete ban on marriages between close relatives within the community.
The draft law recommends safeguarding traditional Kalash customs such as Khaltbari and Murrat, while also introducing a mandatory system for marriage registration through locally appointed registrars.
According to the bill, all records related to marriage and divorce will be maintained at the official level. Decisions regarding separation, khula, and divorce are proposed to be handled in accordance with traditional Kalash practices.
Furthermore, the property rights of widows following the death of their husbands will be recognised under the traditional system. The bill also includes provisions for fines and imprisonment in cases of violations or submission of false information.
Following its introduction in the assembly, the Speaker has referred the Kalash Marriage Bill 2026 to the relevant standing committee for further deliberation.
