In view of Akshay Tritiya and Eid on April 22, Kailash Styarthi Children Foundation KSCF) organised a national seminar on ‘Child marriage free India’. The Foundation has appealed to the government and social organisations to prevent child marriages in the country and also to enact a strong law to prevent it.
The discussion is important as a large number of child marriages are performed in India on Akshay Tritiya and Eid. The Foundation is carrying out a drive against child marriage since October 16, last year. Emphasis on amendment in the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2006 has also been proposed to make it more effective.
The Foundation plans to make India free from child marriages. Government agencies should strengthen its system of reporting and initiating action against violators of the law.
The participants were of the opinion that free education up to the age of 18 years, would help in reducing child marriage to a great extent. Religious leaders should be involved in the mission. A fund should be created by the government and girl students in government schools can be given scholarships of Rs 500 per month. Those getting marriage only after attaining the prescribed age should be given a cash prize of Rs 11,000. The subject related to child marriage can be incorporated in the curriculum.
The law can be enforced through Child Marriage Prevention Officers in Anganwadi, Child Welfare Committees, Panchayati Raj organisations etc.. Those who are forced to marry before attaining the desired age should be supported by providing shelter and other facilities..
The mission was started in 26 states by 76,377 women from 7588 villages.