Introduction

Recent Study Insights: A Lancet study highlights the ongoing challenge of child marriage in India, with significant prevalence in states like West Bengal.
Focus on Four States: Bihar, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra are noted for their high rates of child marriages, particularly among girls.

Key Findings of the Lancet Study

Widespread Prevalence: The study reveals that one in five girls in India is married below the legal age, with notable disparities across states.
Rising Numbers in West Bengal: West Bengal has seen a significant increase in child marriages, with over 500,000 more girls married as children.

Human Rights Violation: Child marriage is recognized as a form of sexual and gender-based violence and a violation of human rights.
Health Consequences: The practice has detrimental effects on maternal and child health, as evidenced by incidents like infant deaths in Murshidabad.

Kanyashree Prakalpa Scheme: A conditional cash transfer scheme aimed at encouraging education and discouraging child marriage among teenage girls.
Rupashree Prakalpa: A cash incentive scheme for the marriage of girls, which sometimes counteracts the objectives of Kanyashree.

Educational Strides vs. Child Marriage: Increased school enrollment of girls in West Bengal has not translated into a reduction in child marriage rates.
Literacy and Child Marriage Correlation: High literacy rates in certain districts have not led to a decrease in child marriage, indicating complex underlying factors.
Migration and Social Norms: Migration patterns and social norms contribute to the persistence of child marriage, with families marrying off daughters before migrating for work.

Inadequate Law Enforcement: Despite existing laws like The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA), 2006, enforcement remains weak in West Bengal compared to other states.
Proposed Amendments: Efforts to raise the legal age of marriage for women to 21 years are underway, with the bill referred to a Parliamentary Standing Committee.

Need for Comprehensive Approach: Addressing child marriage requires a multi-faceted approach involving panchayats, schools, local communities, and political will.
District Action Plans: The West Bengal government’s call for district action plans is a step forward, but effective implementation and social campaigns are crucial.
Enforcing Laws and Raising Awareness: Strengthening law enforcement and raising public awareness are key to reducing child marriage rates in West Bengal and across India.

Persistent Challenge: Despite policy efforts, child marriage remains a significant issue in India, particularly in states like West Bengal.
Balancing Incentives and Enforcement: While schemes like Kanyashree and Rupashree aim to address the issue, balancing incentives with strict law enforcement is essential.
Collaborative Efforts for Change: A collaborative effort involving all stakeholders, along with a strong political commitment, is necessary to effectively combat child marriage and protect the rights of young girls.