Child marriage has been a persistent problem in India for centuries, with roots dating back to ancient customs and social norms.In India we still hear stories where the marriages are fixed by bride and grooms parents. Parents still has the decision rights in rural india about marriages. Despite being illegal under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA) of 2006, the practice continues to affect millions of children, particularly girls, across the country. Child marriages in Assam, like in many other parts of India, are a result of a combination of cultural and socio-economic factors. Poverty, lack of education, traditional customs, and patriarchal attitudes are some of the key drivers of child marriages in the state. In many communities, child marriage is seen as a way to secure a future for young girls by marrying them off at a young age to an older, financially stable man.The current Government in Assam has arrested almost 2000 people for child marriages. Storng law and its implementation can curb the sitation for sure but more than that awareness is also needed.
Traditionally, child marriages were seen as a means of safeguarding a girls life. In a patriarchal society, where women were often seen as property to be traded between families, child marriages were used to negotiate alliances and seal family ties. These cultural practices have been perpetuated over time and continue to be a significant
Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi also emphasized on changing the age of marriage for girls from 18 to 21.This will empower 'desh ki beti' so that they get enough time to complete education and build their careers and become 'Aatmanirbhar.''
According to data from the Census of India 2011, the literacy rate in Assam was 73.18%, which is lower than the national average of 74.04%. Despite some improvement over the past few decades, the state still faces significant challenges in terms of education and literacy, particularly in rural areas.
The problem of child marriage is most pronounced in rural and economically disadvantaged areas, where poverty and lack of access to education further perpetuate the cycle of child marriage. In many cases, families may see child marriage as the only means of securing their daughter's future and easing the financial burden on the household. Many families start collecting gold and household material from the birth of a girl childs birth in India. Even the spent on marriage function comes on the girl’s family leaving a big financial burden.
The adverse consequences of child marriage are well documented and wide-ranging. Children who are forced into marriage are often denied an education and are at greater risk of abuse and exploitation. Girls who marry young are also at a higher risk of maternal mortality, as their bodies may not be physically ready for childbirth. In addition, child marriages are often accompanied by early pregnancies, leading to health problems for both the mother and child. Due to illitracy and socio cultural norms girls are not even allowed to speak on safe sex also.
Many government and non-government organizations are putting effort to end child marriage but it continues to be a major challenge in India. A multi-pronged approach is needed to tackle the issue, including increased access to education, economic empowerment, and legal protections for children. Education is particularly important, as it can help break the cycle of poverty and give girls the tools they need to make informed decisions about their futures.
Child marriage is a deeply ingrained problem in India, with roots that go back centuries. While progress has been made in recent years, much work remains to be done to eradicate the practice and protect the rights of children, particularly girls. It is up to all of us to work together to create a world in which every child can reach their full potential, free from the constraints of child marriage.