Speaker of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly, Babar Saleem Swati here Thursday held a meeting with a delegation of Christian community led by Member Provincial Assembly Askar Parvez and discussed proposed Christian Marriage Act.
KP Speaker, Christian delegation discuss proposed marriage act
PESHAWAR, Jun 18 (APP): Speaker of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly, Babar Saleem Swati here Thursday held a meeting with a delegation of Christian community led by Member Provincial Assembly Askar Parvez and discussed proposed Christian Marriage Act.
During meeting, detailed discussion was held on longstanding demand of the Christian community , the proposed Christian Marriage Act and related legal and administrative matters.
The delegation briefed the Speaker that the family and marital affairs of the Christian community are still largely governed under the colonial era law of 1872, which no longer adequately addresses the evolving social and legal challenges. The delegation emphasized that comprehensive and modern legislation is an urgent need in light of contemporary realities and legal requirements.
Member Provincial Assembly Askar Parvez informed told that, in formulation of the proposed legislation, consultations were held with relevant stakeholders, legal experts and representatives of the Christian community to ensure a practical and effective legal framework that addresses the community’s concerns.
He added that the proposed bill includes provisions related to child marriage prevention, marriage registration, interfaith marriage matters, marital disputes, separation and dissolution of marriage.
The Speaker said that KP assembly is committed to the protection of constitutional, legal rights of all citizens, and is continuing to take serious steps for the resolution of issues faced by minority communities in the province.
He emphasized that ensuring equal rights and dignified living for minorities is a fundamental responsibility of the state and legislative efforts in
this regard will be given due priority. He directed the concerned authorities to immediately take up the draft Christian Marriage Act with Local Government Department and other relevant institutions to review all legal and technical aspects so that it may be presented before the assembly for legislation at the earliest.
He expressed hope that through mutual consultation and consensus, a balanced, comprehensive and workable law would be formulated that aligns with the legitimate demands of the Christian community and contemporary requirements.
The delegation thanked speaker for his keen interest and support in addressing the concerns of the minority community expressed hope that his guidance would help in the early passage of this important legislation.
