Child Marriage: A Social Curse

Child marriage (Bal Vivah) is a social evil, which has been prevalent especially in India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal and African countries. It is a practice in which boys or girls are married at an early age, usually below 18 years. This practice has been prevalent due to many social, economic and religious reasons, but its ill-effects not only affect the health and education of children but also hamper the overall development of the society. Although, many laws have been made in modern times to stop this practice, yet this problem has not been completely eradicated.

History and Origin of Child Marriage

The tradition of child marriage has been going on since ancient times. It became more prevalent in medieval India when there was an atmosphere of insecurity in the society and due to external invasions, families started marrying their daughters early. Apart from this, child marriage was also encouraged due to many religious beliefs and traditions.

In ancient India, it was believed that it was the religious duty of parents to marry girls early. In many castes and communities, it was believed that the earlier the girls got married, the better. In the name of maintaining social prestige and family honour, this evil practice continued from generation to generation.

Causes of child marriage

There are many major reasons for child marriage, which promote this social problem:

Poverty

Girls are considered a burden in poor families. Parents fear that they will not be able to collect dowry for their daughter, so they want to get rid of this responsibility by marrying her early.
Illiteracy

Illiteracy is a major cause of this problem. Families with low level of education believe more in social evils and superstitions and consider practices like child marriage to be correct.

Legal aspects

Indian law has taken several steps to stop the dowry system. Under the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961, taking, giving or demanding dowry has been declared illegal. Despite this, cases of violation of the law are still not less. The major problems in legal measures are:

Lack of effective implementation: The law exists, but its effectiveness is questioned. Many cases are suppressed as soon as they reach the police.

Lack of evidence: It is difficult to gather evidence in dowry-related cases, which gives the culprits a chance to escape justice.

Need for change in social thinking: Along with the law, it is necessary to bring change in the thinking of the society. Until there is a change in social attitude, the misuse of dowry system will continue.

Social awareness and reform efforts

It is very important to spread awareness against dowry system in the society. Efforts are being made at various levels for this:

Education and awareness campaigns: Special programs are being organized in schools, colleges and community centers to spread awareness about the ill effects of dowry system. Developing the right thinking against this evil among the youth is an important step.

Role of social organizations: Many NGOs and social organizations are working against the dowry system. They provide legal aid, mental support and financial assistance to the victims. Their efforts are gradually bringing about a change in the society.

Use of media and technical means: Running a campaign against the dowry system through social media, TV and Internet has also been effective. Campaigns are being run on various digital platforms to increase public awareness, so that the young generation can get the right direction.

Empowerment of women: Opportunities for self-employment, education and training are being provided to make women self-reliant. When women are financially strong, the pressure of dowry system will automatically reduce.

Challenges and solutions

Many challenges arise in the fight against the dowry system. The biggest challenge among these is the old attitude of the society, which has been going on for years. The solution to this problem is possible only when cooperation is received from every section of the society.

Adopting a positive attitude: We need to understand that dowry system is not just a legal issue but a social evil. We need to work together to bring about a positive change in society.

Strict legal enforcement: Only strict enforcement of the law can control the dowry system. Taking strict action against the culprits will keep others away from this evil.

Communication to bring about change in society: By increasing communication among family, friends, and the community, a strong social structure can be created against this practice. Real change will come only when every individual is sensitive towards this issue.

Conclusion

"Stop dowry system" is not a slogan but a social call. It expects all of us to raise our voice against the social evil that causes many problems in the lives of women. Despite efforts made at the legal, educational, and social levels against the dowry system, the pace of change has been slow. But it is necessary that we continue to spread awareness, empower women, and tell every section of the society about the ill-effects of this practice.

As long as old thinking and stereotypes persist in society