Stating that the law governing marriageable age is discriminatory, the petition filed by Rajkot-based Nathalal Chitroda has argued that "there should be equality in the application of statutory provisions in the matter of marriageable age".
The law allows a girl to marry at the age of 18 whereas a boy can marry at the age of 21.
The PIL has stated that this is the only area where there is discrimination on the basis of gender and is in violation of article 14 of the Constitution.
He contended that when men and women are allowed to exercise their franchise and elect government at the age of 18, why should there be difference in their marriageable age.
The matter came up for hearing before the division bench of acting chief justice Bhaskar Bhattacharya and Justice J B Pardiwala yesterday.
The next hearing in the case is scheduled for June 21.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app