English
Arabic
Chinese (Simplified)
Russian
Spanish
Urdu
“Early marriage is a surreptitious custom that perpetuates gender inequality and reinforces harmful cultural norms; its harmful impact on young girls is profound and long-lasting, leading to increased rates of domestic violence, poverty, and poor health outcomes.
In this article, we shall be examining the sophisticating and long-lasting consequences of early marriage with a particular focus on the situation in India. Undoubtedly, Early marriage is a complex and a destructive matter that has devastating effects on individuals, families, and communities. Through this article, we hope to elucidate the harmful effects of this practice and encourage decisive action to bring an end to it.
The grieving practice of early nuptials is a pervasive concern worldwide, particularly in India, that has deleterious and devastating consequences for young girls and women. Despite being apprehensive of the noxious impact on their physical and mental health, education, and economic empowerment, the custom continues to persist. While tradition and culture play a role, poverty, lack of education, and gender inequality also contribute to its longevity. In this article, we will scrutinize the long-term consequences of early marriage in Kashmir, including its effects on women’s health and well-being, education, and economic opportunities. We will also delve into the social and cultural factors that contribute to the issue. By the end of this article, readers will comprehend the gravity of the problem and the exigency of taking action to end this detrimental practice. In fact, Child marriage is an overt sign of inescapable gender inequality and blatant discrimination. It is the result of all-round economic and social forces. In societal perspectives where this practice is commonplace, it is a constituent of a broader set of social norms and attitudes that reflect the low value given to the human rights of girls. This practice has far-reaching effects, not only on girls but also on the perpetuation of a cycle of poverty and social inequality. Early marriage can have a pernicious effect on the Indian economy. It can lead to a shortage of human capital, which is a predominant component of economic growth and stability. When boys and girls get married too young, they are deprived to acquire the indispensable knowledge, imperative skills, and must-have expertise virtues to contribute towards the growth and development of the economy. Premature marriage can also lead to increased fertility rates, which can place a burden on the economy. Furthermore, child marriage can end up in augmented healthcare costs, as girls and boys who get married too young are more likely to experience adverse health outcomes for sure. In simple words, Child marriage has numerous devastating consequences. It is quite disconcerting and overwhelming to hear that 1.5 million underage girls are married each year in India. It is also quite alarming to learn that nearly 16% of adolescent girls aged 15-19 are currently married. Early marriage can lead to a dearth of human capital, which is a vital component of economic growth. Child marriage has a mischievous effect on the education of girls. When girls are married off at a youthful age, they’re frequently forced to drop out of academia, which hampers their intellectual growth and limits their unborn prospects. Without access to education, these girls are denied the opportunity to acquire knowledge, chops, and critical thinking capacities that are essential for their particular development and success in life. The consequences of child marriage on girls’ education are far- reaching. By being married off beforehand, girls are deprived of the chance to complete their studies and pursue advanced education. This perpetuates a cycle of limited profitable openings, as education is a crucial factor in securing better employment and breaking the cycle of poverty. Likewise, without education, girls are more vulnerable to poor health issues, as they may warrant the knowledge and agency to make informed opinions about their well- being. Child marriage also reinforces dangerous gender morals and perpetuates gender inequality. When girls are forced into early marriages, it reinforces the idea that their places are limited to domestic duties and travel, denying them the chance to develop their full potential and contribute to society in a broader sense. This not only hampers the progress of individualities but also hinders the overall development of communities and societies. To address this issue, it’s pivotal to advocate for programs.
“An Exegesis of Islamic perspectives on Child Marriage”.
The Quran terms marriage as a solemn oath:“ And how could you take it down (connubial gift) after you have given yourselves to one another, and she has entered a most solemn pledge from you? ”( Quran, 421)” Islam teaches that marriage is a sacred bond between two subscribing grown-ups who are mentally, emotionally, and physically mature enough to take on the liabilities of marriage. In another verse Allah the Exalted say’s ” O You who have chosen to be adorned with belief! It isn’t legal for you to force women into marrying or holding on to them in marriage against their will (Quran, 4:19) Children do not have the intellectual capacity to fully grasp the immense responsibility that comes with marriage. They would only consider it if they were heavily influenced by their parents, which is strongly discouraged by the Quran”. Islam vehemently condemns the practice of child marriage, placing great emphasis on safeguarding the rights and welfare of children. The Quran underscores the significance of attaining emotional, physical, and social maturity prior to entering into a matrimonial union. It recognizes that children lack the cognitive capacity to comprehend the weighty responsibilities and complexities associated with marriage. Islam advocates for waiting until individuals possess the requisite discernment and capability to make informed decisions and shoulder the commitments inherent in marriage. There are several ways to combat child marriage some of them are follows:
1. Education:- Promoting education for girls is pivotal in combating child marriage. By furnishing access to quality education, girls are empowered with knowledge, chops, and openings for a better future. Education helps challenge dangerous morals and enables girls to make informed choices about their lives.
2) Awareness:- Raising mindfulness about the negative impacts of child marriage is essential. This can be done through community juggernauts, shops, and media platforms. By educating families, communities, and policymakers, we can change stations and comprehensions girding child marriage.
3) Empowering Communities:- Engaging with communities is vital in addressing child marriage. This involves working with original leaders, religious representatives, and community members to challenge dangerous practices and promote gender equivalency.
4) Economic Empowerment: Providing various economic opportunities for girls and also to their families can assist massively in combatting against the child marriage.
5) Access to healthcare: Ensuring access to quality healthcare services, including sexual and reproductive health education, can empower girls to make informed decisions about their bodies and delay marriage.
06) Strengthening child protection systems: The first and the foremost thing is that the Governments should strengthen child protection systems, including social services and child helplines, to provide immediate support for girls at risk of child marriage this stride would hopefully change the entire scenario.
07) Data collection and research: Collecting accurate data and conducting research on child marriage can assit in informing policies and interventions. This can be quite helpful in identifying trends, target interventions, and measure progress in addressing child marriage respectively.
It is imperative to know the fact that these measures should be implemented in a comprehensive and coordinated manner, involving various stakeholders such as governments, NGOs, communities, and individuals. Together, we can work collectively towards curbing this Social evil and ensuring a brighter future for all children. In conclusion, tackling child marriage requires a multi-faceted struggle. Enforcement of laws and promoting education, and also empowering girls are the key strategies to curb this harmful practice. By working collectively, we can create a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive and fulfill their potential, free from the restrictions of child marriage. Let’s join hands and make a difference in the lives of these young individuals.”
– The writer is working as a Social and Peace Activist of Kashmir. He can be reached at sheikhjamsheed751@gmail.com
The grieving practice of early nuptials is a pervasive concern worldwide, particularly in India, that has deleterious and devastating consequences for young girls and women. Despite being apprehensive of the noxious impact on their physical and mental health, education, and economic empowerment, the custom continues to persist. While tradition and culture play a role, poverty, lack of education, and gender inequality also contribute to its longevity. In this article, we will scrutinize the long-term consequences of early marriage in Kashmir, including its effects on women’s health and well-being, education, and economic opportunities. We will also delve into the social and cultural factors that contribute to the issue. By the end of this article, readers will comprehend the gravity of the problem and the exigency of taking action to end this detrimental practice. In fact, Child marriage is an overt sign of inescapable gender inequality and blatant discrimination. It is the result of all-round economic and social forces. In societal perspectives where this practice is commonplace, it is a constituent of a broader set of social norms and attitudes that reflect the low value given to the human rights of girls. This practice has far-reaching effects, not only on girls but also on the perpetuation of a cycle of poverty and social inequality. Early marriage can have a pernicious effect on the Indian economy. It can lead to a shortage of human capital, which is a predominant component of economic growth and stability. When boys and girls get married too young, they are deprived to acquire the indispensable knowledge, imperative skills, and must-have expertise virtues to contribute towards the growth and development of the economy. Premature marriage can also lead to increased fertility rates, which can place a burden on the economy. Furthermore, child marriage can end up in augmented healthcare costs, as girls and boys who get married too young are more likely to experience adverse health outcomes for sure. In simple words, Child marriage has numerous devastating consequences. It is quite disconcerting and overwhelming to hear that 1.5 million underage girls are married each year in India. It is also quite alarming to learn that nearly 16% of adolescent girls aged 15-19 are currently married. Early marriage can lead to a dearth of human capital, which is a vital component of economic growth. Child marriage has a mischievous effect on the education of girls. When girls are married off at a youthful age, they’re frequently forced to drop out of academia, which hampers their intellectual growth and limits their unborn prospects. Without access to education, these girls are denied the opportunity to acquire knowledge, chops, and critical thinking capacities that are essential for their particular development and success in life. The consequences of child marriage on girls’ education are far- reaching. By being married off beforehand, girls are deprived of the chance to complete their studies and pursue advanced education. This perpetuates a cycle of limited profitable openings, as education is a crucial factor in securing better employment and breaking the cycle of poverty. Likewise, without education, girls are more vulnerable to poor health issues, as they may warrant the knowledge and agency to make informed opinions about their well- being. Child marriage also reinforces dangerous gender morals and perpetuates gender inequality. When girls are forced into early marriages, it reinforces the idea that their places are limited to domestic duties and travel, denying them the chance to develop their full potential and contribute to society in a broader sense. This not only hampers the progress of individualities but also hinders the overall development of communities and societies. To address this issue, it’s pivotal to advocate for programs.
“An Exegesis of Islamic perspectives on Child Marriage”.
The Quran terms marriage as a solemn oath:“ And how could you take it down (connubial gift) after you have given yourselves to one another, and she has entered a most solemn pledge from you? ”( Quran, 421)” Islam teaches that marriage is a sacred bond between two subscribing grown-ups who are mentally, emotionally, and physically mature enough to take on the liabilities of marriage. In another verse Allah the Exalted say’s ” O You who have chosen to be adorned with belief! It isn’t legal for you to force women into marrying or holding on to them in marriage against their will (Quran, 4:19) Children do not have the intellectual capacity to fully grasp the immense responsibility that comes with marriage. They would only consider it if they were heavily influenced by their parents, which is strongly discouraged by the Quran”. Islam vehemently condemns the practice of child marriage, placing great emphasis on safeguarding the rights and welfare of children. The Quran underscores the significance of attaining emotional, physical, and social maturity prior to entering into a matrimonial union. It recognizes that children lack the cognitive capacity to comprehend the weighty responsibilities and complexities associated with marriage. Islam advocates for waiting until individuals possess the requisite discernment and capability to make informed decisions and shoulder the commitments inherent in marriage. There are several ways to combat child marriage some of them are follows:
1. Education:- Promoting education for girls is pivotal in combating child marriage. By furnishing access to quality education, girls are empowered with knowledge, chops, and openings for a better future. Education helps challenge dangerous morals and enables girls to make informed choices about their lives.
2) Awareness:- Raising mindfulness about the negative impacts of child marriage is essential. This can be done through community juggernauts, shops, and media platforms. By educating families, communities, and policymakers, we can change stations and comprehensions girding child marriage.
3) Empowering Communities:- Engaging with communities is vital in addressing child marriage. This involves working with original leaders, religious representatives, and community members to challenge dangerous practices and promote gender equivalency.
4) Economic Empowerment: Providing various economic opportunities for girls and also to their families can assist massively in combatting against the child marriage.
5) Access to healthcare: Ensuring access to quality healthcare services, including sexual and reproductive health education, can empower girls to make informed decisions about their bodies and delay marriage.
06) Strengthening child protection systems: The first and the foremost thing is that the Governments should strengthen child protection systems, including social services and child helplines, to provide immediate support for girls at risk of child marriage this stride would hopefully change the entire scenario.
07) Data collection and research: Collecting accurate data and conducting research on child marriage can assit in informing policies and interventions. This can be quite helpful in identifying trends, target interventions, and measure progress in addressing child marriage respectively.
It is imperative to know the fact that these measures should be implemented in a comprehensive and coordinated manner, involving various stakeholders such as governments, NGOs, communities, and individuals. Together, we can work collectively towards curbing this Social evil and ensuring a brighter future for all children. In conclusion, tackling child marriage requires a multi-faceted struggle. Enforcement of laws and promoting education, and also empowering girls are the key strategies to curb this harmful practice. By working collectively, we can create a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive and fulfill their potential, free from the restrictions of child marriage. Let’s join hands and make a difference in the lives of these young individuals.”
– The writer is working as a Social and Peace Activist of Kashmir. He can be reached at sheikhjamsheed751@gmail.com
ADVERTISEMENT
