The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has introduced legislation aimed at formalizing the registration of marriages within the Kalash community while safeguarding its unique cultural heritage. The Kalash Marriage Bill 2026 was presented in the provincial assembly by Local Government Minister Mina Khan Afridi, who detailed a comprehensive legal structure addressing marriages, divorces, and related family affairs.
The proposed law mandates the mutual consent of both parties entering into marriage and sets the minimum legal age at 18 years. Additionally, it requires individuals to be mentally sound at the time of marriage. A notable aspect of the bill is the prohibition of cousin marriages within the Kalash community, representing a significant change in traditional practices.
The draft legislation also emphasizes the protection of customary Kalash traditions. It requires all marriages to be officially registered through designated local registrars, with detailed records of marriages, divorces, and separations maintained by government offices. Divorce proceedings, including separation and “khula,” will be handled Kalash customary laws.
Inheritance rights for widows after the death of their husbands will also be regulated under traditional community systems. The bill includes provisions for penalties such as fines and imprisonment for those who provide false information or violate its terms.
After its introduction, the Speaker of the Assembly referred the Kalash Marriage Bill 2026 to the relevant committee for further examination and consultation prior to final approval.
