Underage marriage is a violation of the law and can have serious consequences for the parties involved. In India, the legal age for marriage is 18 years for females and 21 years for males. If a person is married before they reach the legal age of marriage, the marriage is considered illegal and voidable. Here are some of the consequences of underage marriage: The marriage can be declared voidable: If a person gets married before reaching the legal age, they can file a petition in court to declare the marriage voidable. This means that the marriage is considered illegal and can be annulled by the court. Criminal charges: Underage marriage is a criminal offense in India, and the parties involved in such a marriage can face charges under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006. The penalty for the offense includes imprisonment and a fine. Health risks: Early marriage can have serious health consequences, especially for young girls. Girls who get married at a young age are at a higher risk of developing health problems such as anemia, malnutrition, and pregnancy-related complications. Educational and economic consequences: Underage marriage can prevent young people from completing their education and pursuing their career goals. This can have long-term economic consequences for them and their families. It's important to note that the specific consequences of underage marriage can vary depending on the facts of the case, and it's advisable to consult a lawyer for specific guidance on the matter.

Dear client, Underage marriage, defined in the Indian legal context as the marriage of individuals below the legally permissible age — 18 years for females and 21 years for males — is a significant issue that raises various legal and social concerns. This practice is addressed through several laws aimed at prohibiting child marriage and ensuring the welfare of minors. In India, the primary law governing marriage is the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006. This act prohibits the marriage of minors and prohibits the solemnization of such marriages. Under this act, any marriage involving a person below the legal age is considered voidable at the option of the minor. Section 3 of the Act states that if a child marriage is performed, it is not valid unless the parties enter into a valid marriage after attaining the legal age. The Act also prescribes punishment for those who perform, conduct, or facilitate such marriages, including imprisonment and fines. 1. Legal Consequences: As noted earlier, under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, such marriages can be annulled if one of the parties is a minor at the time of marriage. This means that individuals who married underage can seek legal recourse to dissolve the marriage once they reach the legal age. 2. Social and Psychological Impact: Child brides and grooms often face severe social stigmas. Young girls, in particular, are known to encounter significant psychological issues, including anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation due to forced responsibility or lack of freedom. The abrupt transition into marital roles can hinder their personal and educational development. 3. Health Implications: Marrying at a young age often leads to early pregnancies, which can have dire health consequences for young mothers and their children. The risk of maternal and infant mortality increases significantly for mothers under the age of 18 due to their bodies being physically unprepared for childbirth. 4. Educational Consequences: Underage marriages often result in the termination of education for both boys and girls. Girls are generally expected to take up household responsibilities immediately after marriage, while boys may have to provide for the family financially, impacting their potential for education and skilled employment. Despite existing laws, enforcement remains a significant challenge in India. Child marriage is deeply rooted in cultural, economic, and social norms, especially in rural areas where traditional practices often overshadow legal statutes. There is a pressing need for community awareness programs, governmental actions, and the involvement of non-governmental organizations to tackle these deeply entrenched practices. we hope this clarifies your query. please feel free to reach out for further assistance. thank you.

Dear client, underage marriage legal in India No, underage marriage is not legal in India. The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA), 2006 explicitly prohibits the solemnization of marriages where one or both parties are minors. Although the marriage itself is not automatically void, it can be declared void if certain conditions are met, such as forced marriage or trafficking. In specific situations, such as when the child is married without their consent or under duress, the court can declare the marriage null and void. The legal consequences of underage marriage The legal consequences of underage marriage under Indian law are severe and aim to deter the practice: • Punishment for those involved: Any adult who performs, conducts, or facilitates a child marriage can face imprisonment of up to two years and/or a fine of up to ₹1 lakh. • Void and voidable marriages: Under the PCMA, a child marriage can be declared voidable at the request of the minor within two years of reaching adulthood. In cases where the marriage involves trafficking, coercion, or abuse, the marriage is declared automatically void. • Protection of minors: The law allows the child to seek protection and maintenance from their spouse or guardians. Furthermore, courts can issue injunctions to prevent child marriages from taking place. The rights of children in underage marriages Children involved in underage marriages are entitled to special protections: • Right to annulment: Minors have the legal right to approach the court and annul their marriage upon reaching the age of majority (18 years for women, 21 years for men). • Right to maintenance: If a minor girl is married and later seeks annulment, she has the right to financial support from her husband until she becomes self-sufficient. • Custody and protection: The court prioritizes the welfare of the child, ensuring their custody is awarded to the parent or guardian who can provide a safe environment. The law also mandates rehabilitation for affected children. The role of government authorities The Indian government has empowered specific authorities to prevent and respond to child marriages: • Child Marriage Prohibition Officers (CMPOs): They have the authority to prevent child marriages, report violations, and ensure legal action against perpetrators. • Police intervention: Law enforcement agencies are required to intervene if a child marriage is reported and provide protection to the minor. • Awareness programs: Various governmental and non-governmental organizations run campaigns to educate communities and prevent child marriages. The social and personal consequences Beyond legal penalties, underage marriage has serious social and personal repercussions: • Health risks: Child brides are at increased risk of maternal mortality, malnutrition, and childbirth complications. • Educational disruption: Early marriage often forces children to discontinue education, limiting their future employment prospects. • Emotional impact: Young brides and grooms may face emotional distress and abuse due to immature relationships and lack of support systems. we hope this clarifies your query. please feel free to reach out for further assistance. thank you.