Article 21 - Marriage or?Education

Empowering Women Through Education: Rethinking Early Marriage

Article 21 of the Constitution guarantees the right to marry the person of one's choice. The right to life is guaranteed by the Constitution. This privilege can only be taken away by a law that is substantively, procedurally, and substantively fair, just, and reasonable.

Marriage is a cornerstone of society, fulfilling social, emotional, economic, and biological functions. It forms a legal family unit, provides companionship and intimacy, meets economic needs through shared resources, and enables childbearing and raising children. However, it is essential to understand that marriage can wait a little, but a girl’s education cannot.

Marriage Can Wait; Education Cannot

In many parts of India, marriage is often perceived as a burden due to cultural practices like dowry. As a result, many parents prioritize getting their daughters married off at a young age. They accumulate money for their daughter's marriage rather than investing in her education. This practice deprives girls of their fundamental right to education and the opportunity to become independent and self-reliant.

Early marriage often leads to early pregnancy, health complications, and limited economic opportunities, perpetuating the cycle of poverty and dependence. In contrast, education empowers women, providing them with the skills and knowledge to make informed decisions, pursue careers, and contribute meaningfully to society.

The Case for Education First

Educating girls has far-reaching benefits for individuals, families, and communities. Educated women are more likely to:

Delay Marriage: Educated women tend to marry later, allowing them to mature and make informed choices about their partners.

Have Healthier Families: They are more likely to understand and access healthcare, leading to healthier pregnancies and children.

Contribute Economically: Education opens doors to employment and entrepreneurship, contributing to the economic well-being of families and communities.

Break the Cycle of Poverty: Educated women are better equipped to lift themselves and their families out of poverty.

Conclusion

Marriage can wait, but education cannot. Prioritizing the education of girls not only empowers them but also creates a ripple effect that benefits entire communities. It is time to shift our focus from seeing marriage as the ultimate goal for young girls to recognizing the transformative power of education.

By ensuring that girls receive a quality education, we can break the cycle of poverty, combat cultural malpractices like dowry, and create a more equitable and prosperous society. Let us commit to empowering our daughters through education, giving them the tools they need to build a better future.