At the fag-end of the millennium when the world at large is making great strides in virtually every field, it is indeed disheartening to note that certain Terai-based communities of the Nepalese kingdom are still tightly bound by the shackles of redundant age-old practices. In this context, Sunsari, Morang, Jhapa, Siraha and Saptari have been identified as the worst affected regions where child marriage still prevails. What is worse, parents/guardians as well as the authorities are turning a blind eye to the practice, thus encouraging it.

Though the Nepalese Constitution guarantees laws that safeguard the rights of the child, no voice is being raised against this illegal and unhealthy trend. The Civil Code also prescribes a maximum penalty of three years imprisonment and a fine of Rs 5,000 (US0) for the crime.

Unfortunately, despite the penalty, child marriage is gaining ground, in other words, acceptability. This is the reason why, most of the time, it goes unreported.

Instead of just watching such ceremonies with amazement, society is expected to play a more dynamic role. Educated citizens must also realise their fundamental duties towards society. There is no reason why they should hesitate to lodge complaints with the law enforcement bodies. The District Administration Office or the District or Appellate Courts can also be approached. But unless the complaint is filed in the first place, the police department does little by way of action against the guilty parties.

Nepali society must therefore collectively play a significant role in bringing about attitudinal changes. A myriad of disadvantages associated with child marriages, for instance, the psychological effects and medical complications that arise due to early pregnancy, risky child birth and physical weakness among teenage mothers must be brought to light to generate awareness among parents. They must recognise that unless the groom has attained the age of 18 and the bride 16, they are liable to be booked for flouting marriage regulations.

The laws enacted by the Constitution to protect the rights of the child can only be effective if implemented forcefully. Above all, there is a sore need to launch an awareness campaign among these communities, which encourage child marriage, to educate children - both boys and girls - so that the girl child too can become self-reliant and chart out her own destiny. Parents must discard their community’s dictates as these cause great harm.

(Source: Katmandu Post editorial on 16 June 1998.)