Child marriage is a prohibited practice in India, and various laws have been enacted to prevent and combat it. The punishment for child marriage in India can vary depending on the specific provisions of the relevant laws, which include the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, and the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006: The Act defines a child as a male under the age of 21 and a female under the age of 18. If a child marriage is solemnized, the Act declares it void ab initio (as if it never existed). Individuals who perform, participate in, or promote child marriages can face penalties, which may include imprisonment and fines. Specifically, Section 9 of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, stipulates that anyone who performs, conducts, or abets child marriage can be punished with imprisonment that may extend to two years and a fine that may extend to one lakh rupees (Rs. 100,000). Indian Penal Code (IPC): In addition to the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, the IPC also contains provisions related to child marriage. Section 9 of the IPC prohibits a husband from having sexual intercourse with his wife if she is under 15 years old, with the punishment for such an offense being imprisonment that may extend to two years. It's important to note that while these legal provisions exist to prevent and penalize child marriages, the effectiveness of enforcement may vary across different regions and communities in India. Social and awareness programs, as well as community engagement, play a crucial role in addressing and preventing child marriages. Child marriage is a deeply rooted social issue in some parts of India, and efforts are ongoing to raise awareness about its harmful consequences and to empower individuals to prevent and report such marriages. If you suspect a child marriage or know of one, it's important to report it to the appropriate authorities for intervention and support.