Early marriage is violation of basic human rights: Solanki

Early and forced marriage represents a serious form of child abuse and is a violation of basic human rights and freedom of choice concerning one's spouse, Punjab and Haryana Governor Kaptan Singh Solanki said today.
Inaugurating an exhibition 'Girls Voices', organised by the Consulate General of Canada here, in partnership with NGO 'Girls not Brides', he said, imposed marriage deprives young girls of this right, affecting their life and causing severe and irreparable damage to their dignity.
"Early and forced marriage is closely related to breach of human rights and fundamental freedoms, such as the right to education, health, freedom of expression and freedom of religion or belief," the Governor said.

Studies have shown that child marriage often leads to gender-based violence, including domestic, physical and sexual. It needs to be addressed at the earliest, he said.
Solanki said the exhibition outlines the drivers and consequences of child marriage, including its links with poverty, education, health, tradition and religion.
"Gender based discrimination is found in all strata of society and manifests itself in many forms," the Governor said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Scheme'. Similarly several other states have also taken steps to stop early marriages and have used cash incentives to generate awareness and change the mindset of the public, he said.

Speaking on the occasion, Christopher Gibbins, Consul General of Canada, Chandigarh said it was estimated that 15 million girls are forced into child marriage around the world each year.
Stressing on recognising the work of NGOs in the country, he said their efforts at grassroots level constitute an invaluable part of struggle for women's and girls' rights and dignity in India.