ANALYSIS OF REGISTRATION OF CHILD MARRIAGES IN RAJASTHAN

AUTHOR – KEERTHI KASTURI, STUDENT AT SCHOOL OF LAW, CHRIST (DEEMED TO BE UNIVERSITY)

Best Citation – KEERTHI KASTURI, ANALYSIS OF REGISTRATION OF CHILD MARRIAGES IN RAJASTHAN, ILE FORFIX (ILE FORFIX), 1 (1) of 2023, Pg. 1-5, APIS – 3920 – 0038 | ISBN – 978-81-964391-3-2.

ABSTRACT

This research paper examines the registration of child marriages in Rajasthan, India, and analyses its challenges and effectiveness. Rajasthan has a high prevalence of child marriages, with 35% of marriages in the state being child marriages according to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4) conducted in 2015-16. The paper discusses the legal framework governing child marriage, including the Child Marriage Restraint Act (CMRA) of 1929 and the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA) of 2006. It explores the registration process governed by the Rajasthan Compulsory Registration of Marriages Act, 2009, and the challenges faced, such as lack of awareness, infrastructure, and manpower. The paper also evaluates the effectiveness of the registration process, including its contribution to creating a marriage database, serving as proof of marriage, and raising awareness about child marriage. It highlights important case laws and landmark judgments related to child marriages in Rajasthan, demonstrating the commitment of the judicial system to protecting children’s rights. Additionally, the paper discusses the Prohibition of Child Marriage Amendment Bill, 2021, which proposes to raise the minimum age of marriage for both males and females to 21 years, and critiques the bill from legal experts and child rights activists. In conclusion, while the registration of child marriages is an important step, the challenges and critiques indicate the need for comprehensive measures to address the root causes of child marriage and protect the rights of children in Rajasthan. To effectively address the issue of child marriages in Rajasthan, it is crucial to focus on raising awareness, improving access to education and economic opportunities for girls, and addressing social norms that perpetuate the practice. Additionally, comprehensive measures should be implemented to protect and support girls already in child marriages and prevent such marriages from occurring in the first place.