‘Child marriage law framed taking all into consideration’

Parliament Correspondent: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said her government has enacted new law on child marriage taking the reality of the socio-economic problems of families in rural areas into consideration.

The premier said this while replying to a supplementary question from Jatiya Party lawmaker Fakhrul Imam during Prime Minister`s Question Answer Session in the parliament on Wednesday.

Pointing to a section of NGOs and individuals, she said they have no idea about the reality of society in rural areas. That’s why they are raising questions about the provision of allowing marriage of a girl under 18 years in special case.

Criticising those opposing incorporating the provision for special marriage in the Child Marriage Prevention Act 2016, she said, "They are far away from the reality. They never stayed in village and don’t have any idea about the social system."

Many western countries allow marriage of girls at 14 and 16 years, the prime minister added.

"A law can never be rigid, there must have an alternative in special cases particularly in case of unexpected pregnancy of any girl under 18. Otherwise it might be disastrous for the society," she said.

Sheikh Hasina said her government has been making relentless efforts to make people aware about child marriage. In view of this, girls are being encouraged for education and provided with scholarship side by side with creating scope for job.

risingbd/Dhaka/Dec 7, 2016/NR/Amirul