Raising the Legal Age of Marriage: Law, Maturity, and Social Responsibility

Hyderabad (RNI) Marriage is not merely a personal or emotional bond; it is a legally recognized social institution governed by law and bound by responsibility. In India, the issue of early marriage continues to pose serious social challenges, despite existing legal safeguards. A growing number of marital disputes, family conflicts, and broken relationships among young couples highlight the urgent need to revisit the legal framework governing the age of marriage for both men and women.

At present, the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006 (PCMA) defines a “child” under Section 2(a) as a male who has not completed 21 years of age and under Section 2(b) as a female who has not completed 18 years of age. While this law was enacted to prevent child marriages, the differing age limits have created social and legal inconsistencies. Although marriages below the prescribed age are discouraged, they are not automatically void; under Section 3, such marriages are voidable at the option of the minor, which often results in prolonged legal and emotional complications.

In practice, many young individuals—especially those between 18 and 21 years—enter marriage without sufficient emotional, psychological, or financial maturity. Influenced by impulsive decisions and limited life experience, several love marriages take place without adequate preparedness or family consensus. This immaturity often leads to misunderstandings, domestic conflicts, and social pressure, causing distress not only to the couple but also to their families.

The law also recognizes accountability. Section 9 of the PCMA prescribes punishment for an adult male who contracts a child marriage. Section 10 penalizes those who solemnize such marriages, while Section 11 holds parents, guardians, or any person promoting or permitting child marriage legally responsible. Despite these provisions, enforcement remains weak, and social realities continue to undermine the spirit of the law.

Recognizing these concerns, the Union Government proposed the Prohibition of Child Marriage (Amendment) Bill, 2021, seeking to raise the minimum age of marriage for women from 18 to 21 years, bringing parity with men. This proposed reform reflects the understanding that true maturity—emotional stability, informed decision-making, and financial independence—generally develops after the age of 21, irrespective of gender.

A uniform marriage age of 21 years for both men and women would strengthen gender equality, reduce premature marriages, and promote responsible adulthood. It would allow young citizens to complete education, gain professional exposure, and better understand the responsibilities that marriage entails. Importantly, such a reform would not restrict personal freedom but rather safeguard the long-term well-being of individuals and families.

Marriage must be a conscious, mature, and well-informed choice—not an impulsive emotional decision. Strengthening the legal age of marriage through clear legislation and effective enforcement is essential for building stable families and a healthier society. Lawmakers, civil society, and the media must work collectively to ensure that the intent of the law translates into social progress and lasting harmony.

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