The legal age of marriage in India is a critical aspect of the country’s social and legal framework, reflecting its commitment to balancing traditional values with modern human rights norms. Over the years, this legal age has evolved, marking significant progress in the country’s journey towards gender equality and the protection of young people.
What is Legal Age of Marriage in India?
Originally set at younger ages, the legal age of marriage in India has been progressively increased to protect the rights and well-being of young people. As of 2021, the legal age of marriage was set at 21 for both males and females, aligning with global trends and addressing gender inequalities.
RELATED: Gauhar Khan Age: The Model Turned Actress’s Journey
Table of Contents
What is the Legal Age for Marriage in India for a Girl in 2023?
By 2023, the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA), 2006, stipulates that the legal age of marriage in India is 18 for females and 21 for males. This law aims to prevent child marriages and safeguard the rights and health of young women.
Is the Legal Age of Marriage in India 18 or 21?
While the legal age of marriage for females in India is currently 18, and 21 for males, there has been an ongoing debate to eliminate this gender disparity. The distinction, rooted in patriarchal stereotypes, lacks scientific basis and contributes to inequality against women.
RELATED: Megan Fox Height: Hollywood’s Enigmatic Beauty
Can a Girl Marry Before 21 in India?
Under the current legal framework, the Special Marriage Act, 1954, and the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, set the minimum age of consent for marriage at 18 for women and 21 for men. These ages are distinct from the age of majority, which is gender-neutral.
Is Live-in Relationship Legal in India?
The legality of live-in relationships in India was affirmed by the Supreme Court in 2010, under the right to life in Article 21 of the Constitution of India. This recognition implies that the act of two adults living together without marriage is neither illegal nor unlawful.
Can Unmarried Couples Stay Together in India?
The Supreme Court of India’s 2018 ruling stated that adult couples have the right to live together without marriage. This decision extends to the right of unmarried couples to stay in hotels together, reflecting a more progressive approach towards adult relationships in the country.
Conclusion
The evolution of the legal age of marriage in India represents the country’s ongoing efforts to balance societal norms with modern values and human rights. While progress has been made, the continued dialogue and legal reforms indicate a commitment to further advancing gender equality and protecting the rights of young individuals.
FAQs about Legal Age of Marriage in India
- What is the current legal age of marriage in India for girls and boys?
- As of 2023, it’s 18 for girls and 21 for boys.
- Has there been any change to the legal age of marriage in India recently?
- Yes, there was a proposal to increase the legal age of marriage for females to 21 to match that of males.
- Is it legal for a girl to marry at 18 in India?
- Yes, a girl can legally marry at the age of 18 in India.
- Are live-in relationships legal in India?
- Yes, live-in relationships are legal under the right to life in Article 21 of the Constitution of India.
- Can unmarried couples legally stay together in hotels in India?
- Yes, following the Supreme Court ruling in 2018, unmarried couples can stay together in hotels.
