Himachal Pradesh Increases Women Minimum Marriage Age to 21

Himachal Pradesh Assembly recently passed the Prohibition of Child Marriage (Amendment) Bill, 2024. Under this rule, the minimum age of marriage for a woman is increased from 18 to 21 years. Revise the Prohibition of Child Marriage (PCM) Act, 2006 to include necessary provisions for dealing with issues concerning early marriage.

New Bill in Himachal Pradesh:

• "Child" redefined: Child means anyone under 21 years old, regardless of gender. •
• Rank Demands New Age Limit: The new age limit will be the top priority to ensure that all faculties are applied consistently throughout the state.
• Extension of Time to Annul a Child Marriage: The Bill increases the time limit for annulment of child marriages within two years after attaining the age 20 years instead.
• The Bill, which requires approval of the Governor of Himachal Pradesh as well as from President of India.
• Bill Introduced for Better Education and Careers: Early marriage can come in the way of a woman having better education or career prospects.
• Health protection: Avoid marriage in early child age to help women feel healthier, thereby creating conditions for the growth and success of women.

This Bill is a big step forward in the fight against child marriage and for women's rights in Himachal Pradesh.