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The Supreme Court of India has issued a strong statement against the practice of child marriage and betrothal, emphasizing that these practices violate the fundamental right of children to choose their life partners freely. The court underscored the importance of recognizing and upholding the right to childhood for all genders, emphasizing that education, encompassing primary, sexual, and life-enhancing aspects, is intrinsically linked to this fundamental right. The realization of this right is crucial in addressing the harmful consequences of child marriage.
The court's judgment highlights the detrimental impacts of child marriage on the lives of children. It recognizes that child marriage is a violation of human rights, robbing children of their autonomy, agency, and the opportunity to fully develop their potential. By forcing children into marriage, they are denied the chance to pursue education, explore their interests, and build a life based on their own choices.
The Supreme Court's emphasis on education as a crucial tool in combating child marriage is particularly significant. Access to quality education empowers children with knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities, enabling them to make informed decisions about their lives. Education empowers children to understand their rights, challenge societal norms, and advocate for themselves. The court's call for strengthening education systems and providing children with access to comprehensive sex education is essential to empowering them to make healthy and informed choices regarding their lives and relationships.