MINIMUM AGE OF MARRIAGE FOR WOMEN

Dec. 17, 2021

The Union Cabinet on December 15 took the decision to raise the legal age of marriage for women from 18 to 21 years. The legal age of marriage for men is 21 years.

About:

With this decision, the government will be bringing the age of marriage for both men and women at par.
Why is there a minimum age of marriage? The law prescribes a minimum age of marriage to essentially outlaw child marriages and prevent the abuse of minors.

View of different religion

Personal laws of various religions that deal with marriage have their own standards, often reflecting custom.
For Hindus, The Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 sets 18 years as the minimum age for the bride and 21 years as the minimum age for the groom. In Islam, the marriage of a minor who has attained puberty is considered valid.
The Special Marriage Act, 1954 and the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006 also prescribe 18 and 21 years as the minimum age of consent for marriage for women and men, respectively. For the new age of marriage to be implemented, these laws are expected to be amended.

Source : Indian Express