Amending Sharda Act OF 1929
The age of marriage for women was increased from 15 to 18 in 1978 by amending the
erstwhile Sharda Act of 1929. The first indication of an upward revision in the age of
marriage of girls came in PM Narendra Modi’s speech on Independence Day last year.
Recently, the Cabinet approved the introduction of ‘Prohibition of Child Marriage
(Amendment) Bill, 2021’ for amending ‘The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006 (PCMA).’
The bill is expected to be taken up in Parliament soon. According to sources, the bill once
approved by Parliament, will be followed by consequential amendments in laws relating to
age of marriage. These include personal laws governing marriage of Hindus, Muslims,
Christians, Parsis and the Special Marriage Act, 1954’ and the Foreign Act, 1969.’ Under
scrutiny are related laws like ‘Hindu Minority and Guardianship Act, 1956’ and ‘Hindu
Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956.’
Q1. What are the strengths and weaknesses of the above source given? (6)
Q2. The age of marriage for women was increased from 15 to 18 in 1978 by amending the
erstwhile Sharda Act of 1929.
How would test the above claim. Refer the source to support your answer. (8)
Q3. Do you think ‘Prohibition of Child Marriage (Amendment) Bill, 2021’ will bring any
change in the society? If yes, then how? If no, what would be the causes and
consequences? (10)