Child Marriages In India: A Blend Of Socio-Economic Constraints With Traditions And Administrative Lacunas

Abstract

The current study is based on societal perception theoretical framework, examined attitudes and behaviours associated with child marriages in India. Often perceived as an economic problem, child marriages are deeply entrenched into the culture. This article provides empirical evidence on society’s perception over child marriages in Indian society. Employing opinion survey through a structured questionnaire the data was collected from a diverse class of people. Data was analysed separately for males and females. Results indicated that respondents’ economic backwardness, socio-cultural affiliations, experience and knowledge of child marriage and lack on the part of laws and administration are strongly associated with higher cases of child marriages in India. All four factors remained significant when separated by gender and it was found that social and economic constraints have a similar role to play in child marriage victimisation. Considering these risk factors, this paper brings forth some prevention efforts to reduce child marriages in India.