Legal Age of Marriage for Girls in India: Explained
Marriage is considered one of the most significant events in an individual's life in India. However, it is essential to understand that marriage is a lifelong commitment, and there are legal rules and regulations to ensure that individuals enter into it at the right age. In India, the legal age of marriage for girls and boys is regulated by different laws. In this article, we will focus on the legal age of marriage for girls in India and the various laws governing it.
Legal Age of Marriage for Girls in India
In India, the legal age of marriage for girls is 18 years. According to the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, any marriage of a girl below the age of 18 and a boy below the age of 21 is considered illegal. The act was enforced to prohibit child marriages and protect the rights of young girls. It was a progressive step towards eradicating the societal evil of child marriage prevalent in many parts of India.
Why is the Legal Age of Marriage Important?
The legal age of marriage is crucial as it helps in protecting the rights of young girls. Marrying at a young age can have severe consequences on the health and well-being of the individual. Child brides are often deprived of their right to education and are at a higher risk of experiencingdomestic violence. They are also vulnerable to premature pregnancy and other health complications. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that young girls enter into a marital relationship at the right age, where they are mentally, physically, and emotionally mature.
Legal Provisions Related to Marriage Age in India
The legal age of marriage for girls is regulated by various laws in India. Some of these laws are:
- The Hindu Marriage Act, 1955: The Act defines the legal age of marriage for Hindu women as 18 years and for Hindu men as 21 years.
- The Special Marriage Act, 1954: The Act defines the legal age of marriage as 18 years for both men and women.
- The Muslim Personal Law (Shariat) Application Act, 1937: The Act defines the legal age of marriage for Muslim women as 15 years and for Muslim men as 18 years.
- The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006: The Act defines the legal age of marriage as 18 years for girls and 21 years for boys.
Consequences of Violating the Legal Age of Marriage
In India, marrying a girl below the age of 18 is considered illegal and can result in severe consequences. The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, imposes a fine of up to Rs. 1 lakh and/or imprisonment of up to 2 years on anyone who performs, conducts or promotes child marriage. Parents or guardians of the minor can also face legal consequences.
Conclusion
The legal age of marriage for girls in India is 18 years, and any marriage below this age is considered illegal. The laws have been enacted to protect the rights of young girls and prevent child marriages. It is crucial to understand the importance of the legal age of marriage and follow the laws to ensure a safe and secure future for young girls. It is the responsibility of the entire society to work together towards eradicating the societal evil of child marriages and protecting the rights of young girls.
