Dear Editor,
I am writing to raise awareness about the issue of child marriages, which is still prevalent in many parts of our country. Child marriages not only violate the rights of children, but also has serious long-term consequences for their health, education, and future opportunities.
Many girls in our country are forced into marriage before they reach the age of 18, which is the legal age of marriage. This practice is often driven by poverty, cultural norms, and gender inequality. Child brides are more likely to drop out of school, face health complications during pregnancy and childbirth, and suffer from domestic violence.
It is imperative that we take action to end this harmful practice. The government must enforce laws that prohibit child marriage and punish those who engage in it. Community leaders and parents must be educated about the harmful consequences of child marriage, and efforts must be made to empower girls and women to assert their rights.
We can also work towards providing better access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for girls and women, which can help to break the cycle of poverty and gender inequality that often drives child marriage.
We must all come together to end child marriage and ensure that every child has the opportunity to live a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life.
Khubaib Malkera,
Lahore.
