Himachal Assembly Passes Bill Raising Marriage Age For Women From 18 To 21

The Himachal Pradesh Assembly passed a bill on Tuesday to increase the legal marriage age for women from 18 to 21 years. The bill, titled the Prohibition of Child Marriage (Himachal Pradesh Amendment Bill 2024), was approved through a voice vote.

Health and Women Empowerment Minister Dhani Ram Shandil introduced the bill, highlighting the need to amend the Child Marriage Act of 2006. Shandil emphasized that the current legal age of 18 for marriage was insufficient to address issues of gender equality and educational opportunities for women. 

"The increase in the minimum age for marriage is crucial to ensure that girls have the opportunity to pursue higher education and make informed decisions about their futures," Shandil stated. He also pointed out that early pregnancies pose serious health risks for young girls, further justifying the proposed change.

The amendment seeks to align the state's regulations with broader goals of gender equality and health safety. By raising the marriageable age to 21, the bill aims to empower women and improve their prospects for a better quality of life.