The Maharashtra government is considering a new rule that would make it mandatory to include the date of birth (DOB) of the bride and groom on wedding invitation cards. This measure is aimed at curbing child marriage in the state.
Declining Child Marriage Rate
According to the latest survey data, Maharashtra's child marriage rate has declined from 21.9 per cent in the 2019-21 survey to 19.6 per cent in the 2023-24 survey. Despite this progress, the state government believes more stringent measures are needed to further reduce the incidence of child marriage.
The proposed rule would require all wedding cards to clearly display the DOB of both individuals getting married. This would make it easier for authorities and community members to verify the ages of the couple and identify potential cases of underage marriage.
Implementation and Enforcement
Officials from the Maharashtra government have indicated that the rule is still under consideration and a final decision is expected soon. If implemented, it could apply to all marriages registered in the state, including those conducted under personal laws.
The move has been welcomed by child rights activists who argue that it will serve as a deterrent against child marriage. However, some have raised concerns about privacy and the potential for misuse of personal data.
Broader Context
Maharashtra is not the first state to consider such a measure. Rajasthan has also implemented similar rules in the past. The practice of child marriage remains a significant issue in India, despite legal prohibitions. The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, sets the minimum age of marriage at 18 for women and 21 for men.
According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), the national average for child marriage in India is around 23.3 per cent. While Maharashtra's rate is lower than the national average, the state government is committed to bringing it down further.
Next Steps
The Maharashtra government plans to consult with various stakeholders, including religious leaders and community representatives, before finalizing the rule. The aim is to ensure that the measure is both effective and culturally sensitive.
If implemented, the DOB mandate on wedding cards could become a model for other states looking to combat child marriage. The government is also exploring other initiatives, such as awareness campaigns and stricter enforcement of existing laws.
