Violations of Marriage Functions Act continue

Rawalpindi: Though the Punjab government has imposed a ban on loud music and every kind of nuisance and disturbance in the neighbourhood during marriage ceremonies, this longstanding social practice is still underway in almost all localities of the city.

“There was a marriage ceremony in our area and the road was closed for traffic. The closure of roads falls under the category of ‘nuisance’ but our people will take some time to understand the law approved by the Punjab Assembly,” said Nazir Abbasi, a resident of Satellite Town.

He said the violator of the Marriage Functions Act can be fined from Rs50,000 to Rs2 million and can also be punished with imprisonment of one month, adding “First of all the local administration must create awareness among the public about new marriage function laws.”

It is pertinent to mention here that the rule of restriction of one dish and closure of marriage halls after 10 p.m. during the marriage ceremonies is fully followed by the people because they have got awareness about it.

Fakhra Shah, a resident of Satellite Town, said imposition of ban on fireworks, loud music and creating problems for neighbours during the marriage functions is a positive step and the government must ensure its implementation in letter and spirit.

“I think the people are not fully aware about new marriage laws so awareness campaign should be initiated in this respect. The new laws show that our society is moving in the direction where it will make life much easier than before,” she said.