wherein the alleged detenue unequivocally affirmed that she had contracted marriage with the Petitioner of her own choice and expressed her desire to reside with him, explicitly declining to return to her parents. It is noteworthy that even during her stay at the Crisis Centre, Islamabad, she has consistently maintained this position. Accordingly, in view of the fact that the alleged detenue has attained puberty and appears to have given free and voluntary consent, she shall be at liberty to reside with the Petitioner. In these circumstances, the instant petition is disposed of. The ICMRA, 2025 does not invalidate their marriage, rather it has stipulated punishment for those participating or promoting the same. Therefore, the marriage contracted inter se the parties in the instant case cannot be said to be in contravention to the injunctions of Islam or any statutory provision.

(Writ Petition 2494 OF 2025)