Early marriages

(Muhammad Ahmer Raoq, karachi)

Early marriages, a tradition still followed in many parts of the developing world including Pakistan, deprive children of their early years development, academic pursuits and enjoyment. Girls are usually the worst victims of this practice.

A comprehensive research survey on domestic violence by Rutgers WPF has revealed that 61 percent of women in Pakistan are married off when still a child. More than 77 percent of these marriages are the result of some tradeoffs settled to end litigation. This situation demands an all encompassing intervention not only from NGOs but the lawyers and academic community as well. A constitutional amendment of a strict nature is in the calling to get rid of this menace. On an urgent basis, the Prevention of Anti-Women Practices (Criminal Law Amendment) Act 2011 should be enforced. Child Marriages Restraint Act 1929 needs to be implemented after incorporating required amendments in all provinces to protect young girls from being given off to marriage that eventually makes them victims of domestic violence. Effective steps are also required to implement the Convention on Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) in true letter and spirit.

Muhammad Ahmer Raoq
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