Child Marriage Restraint Act: Empowering Young Girls and Breaking the Cycle

Nada Alahdal August 10, 2023

0 129 2 minutes read

With evolving times and an increased awareness towards human rights and equality, child marriage has become a pressing issue in our society. The detrimental consequences that come along with child marriage cannot be overlooked. It is a violation of basic human rights whereby children, especially young girls, are forced into marriages without their consent. Such marriages rob these children of their childhood, their education, and their future prospects. In order to address this issue and protect the rights of vulnerable children, the government has enacted the Child Marriage Restraint Act.

The act aims to prevent the solemnization of marriages where either the bride or the groom is below the age of 18. It sets a minimum age requirement for marriage, ensuring that no child is forced into such a commitment before they are mentally, emotionally, and physically prepared. By defining child marriage as a criminal offense, the act sends a strong message that such practices will not be tolerated.

Moreover, the act also focuses on raising awareness and promoting education. It emphasizes the importance of educating children, especially girls, in order to empower them and provide them with the tools necessary to make informed choices about their lives. Education plays a crucial role in breaking the cycle of poverty and ensuring a better future for these children.

One of the key provisions of the act is the establishment of special courts to handle cases related to child marriage. These courts are designed to provide a safe and supportive environment for victims to seek justice. They also aim to expedite the legal process and ensure that cases of child marriage are dealt with efficiently.

The act also imposes strict penalties on those involved in arranging or conducting child marriages. It holds parents, guardians, and even religious leaders accountable for their actions. By implementing these penalties, the act aims to deter individuals from engaging in such activities and create a society where child marriage is no longer seen as acceptable.

While the act has undoubtedly paved the way for progress in curbing child marriage, it is important to recognize that there is still a long way to go. Enforcement of the law and raising awareness about its provisions remain a significant challenge. It requires a collective effort from the government, civil society organizations, communities, and individuals to address this issue effectively.

In conclusion, the Child Marriage Restraint Act represents a significant step towards protecting the rights of children and eradicating the harmful practice of child marriage. It aims to raise awareness, promote education, and enforce penalties to prevent the solemnization of marriages involving children. However, the implementation of the act and continued efforts to raise awareness are essential in order to create a society where every child can grow up free from the shackles of early marriage.

Nada Alahdal

Human right activist
Nada Foundation