The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has introduced a new bill to formally regulate marriage registrations within the Kalash community while preserving its cultural traditions.
Provincial Local Government Minister Mina Khan Afridi presented the Kalash Marriage Bill 2026 in the provincial assembly, outlining a structured legal framework for marriages, divorces, and related family matters within the community.
Under the proposed law, marriage will require the mutual consent of both parties. The minimum legal age for marriage has been set at 18 years, and individuals must be of sound mental health at the time of marriage.
One of the key provisions of the bill is a complete ban on cousin marriages within the Kalash community, marking a significant regulatory change. At the same time, the bill includes measures to legally protect traditional Kalash customs.
The draft legislation also requires all marriages to be registered through officially appointed local registrars. Government offices will maintain detailed records of marriages, divorces, and separations.
According to the bill, divorce matters, including separation and “khula,” will be handled in line with Kalash customary practices. Inheritance rights of widows after the death of a husband will also be governed under traditional community systems.
The proposed law includes penalties such as fines and imprisonment for providing false information or violating its provisions.
After being introduced, the Speaker of the Assembly referred the Kalash Marriage Bill 2026 to the relevant committee for further review and consultation before final approval.
