The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Cabinet Legislation Committee approved on Sunday the draft of the Kalash “Historical” marriage bill, clearing its path that will be presented to the Provincial Assembly of KP for the ratification and promulgation of law.
The Kalash are a unique indigenous people who live in the valleys of remote Chitral in northern Pakistan, known for its old Indo-dearia culture, polytheistic religion (a form of animism), unique language and vibrant festivals.
“After the approval of the Cabinet Legislation Committee, Kalash’s marriage bill is now ready for presentation at the next provincial cabinet meeting for the presentation at the KP Assembly to vote,” said Qamar Naseem, Blue Viens and Co-Drafter Programs Manager of the legal document.
“This initiative represents a significant step to recognize and safeguard the rights of the indigenous peoples of Pakistan,” he said.
Naseem appreciated the government for its commitment and cooperation to advance with this historical legislation.
He also thanked Wazirzada, a focal person for KP’s prime minister on minority matters; the National Human Rights Commission (NCHR); the Local Government Department; and all who provided their support to write the bill and its approval of different government offices.
He noted that this historical legislation will provide the Kalash community with an indispensable legal protection and a formal registration system for its marriages, respecting their cultural and religious identity.
“It is not only a legal reform but also a recognition of their fundamental rights,” he added.
During generations, the Kalash people have lived in the valleys of Bumburet, Rumbur and Birir in Chitral, maintaining their distinctive identity through unique religious beliefs, festivals, rituals and traditions.
Despite its rich global heritage and recognition, the community has been deprived of a formal legal framework to protect their social and cultural rights.
The marriage record has been one of the most pressing gaps, with Kalash couples who lack a system to officially register their unions, resulting in legal and social complications.
Kalash’s marriage bill addresses this historical omission. It presents a legal mechanism for the registration of marriages according to Kalash’s religious values and the usual practices, thus ensuring both cultural preservation and legal recognition.
“The progress of the Kalash marriage bill marks a turning point for the Kalash people, preparing the stage so that their cultural traditions are formally respected and legally recognized within the legistan legislative framework,” Naseem said.
