The Supreme Court of India deliberated on July 10, 2024, over a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by the ‘Society for Enlightenment and Voluntary Action’, alleging a resurgence in child marriages across the nation and citing lapses in the enforcement of pertinent legislation.
High Stakes: PIL Allegations and Government’s Defense
A panel led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, accompanied by Justices J.B. Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, presided over the proceedings, hearing impassioned arguments from the petitioner’s counsel and Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, representing the Central Government. The apex court reserved its judgment after absorbing comprehensive submissions from both sides.
Unveiling the Data: Government’s Contentions
Contrary to the NGO’s claims, the Central Government asserted a notable decline in incidents of child marriages nationwide. This stance underscored the contentious nature of the issue, where statistical interpretation clashed with grassroots concerns over actual implementation of legal mandates.
Legislative Scrutiny: Prohibition of Child Marriage Act
The PIL spotlighted the efficacy of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, emphasizing its enforcement across states and union territories. The Supreme Court had previously directed the Ministry of Women and Child Development to furnish a detailed status report outlining proactive measures taken to enforce the Act’s provisions effectively.
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