![[Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat] "Customs Like Child Marriage Must Not Hinder Her Goals’’: Women and Child Development Ministry](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/image-42-1.png?resize=447%2C367&ssl=1)
Union Minister Annapurna Devi launched the “Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat Campaign” on November 27 to eliminate child marriages in India. The initiative focuses on empowering girls, enforcing legal reforms to set 18 as the minimum marriage age, and targeting high-burden states. The aim is to cut child marriage prevalence below 5% by 2029.
Chief Justice DY Chandrachud highlighted the detrimental effects of child marriage, stressing the need for dedicated Child Marriage Prohibition Officers (CMPOs) to enact prevention measures effectively. The Supreme Court mandated measures such as exclusive CMPO appointments, public reporting portals, and fast-track courts to enhance enforcement, protect minors, and ultimately uphold children’s rights in India.
The Allahabad High Court ordered prosecution of a priest and others involved in a child marriage, emphasizing the illegality of the act and the need for strict enforcement of child protection laws. The ruling highlights the judiciary’s firm stance against child marriage and the exploitation of minors, aiming to prevent future instances in the region.
Today, On 29th August, The Assam government repealed the outdated Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act, mandating the registration of all marriages with the government. The new law, introduced to eradicate the Qazi system and prevent child marriages, sets strict conditions for marriage registration. It aims to empower women, prevent non-consensual marriages, and curb polygamy, amid controversy and opposition.
Today, On 6th August, The Supreme Court of India agreed to expedite the hearing on whether Muslim personal law allowing child marriages supersedes the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006. The issue arose following a Punjab and Haryana High Court decision allowing a 16-year-old Muslim girl to marry after reaching puberty. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta emphasized the urgency due to conflicting rulings from various High Courts. The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights challenged the ruling and requested the alignment of Islamic personal law with national penal laws to protect the fundamental rights of minor Muslim women.