Finding Her Voice

Payal gave us permission to share her powerful speech (translated from Hindi).

Today in our India the biggest problem people are facing is the marriage of children. Getting their children married before the right age of maturity mostly becomes a problem for girls because it affects their physical and mental well-being, and creates more problems and difficulties.

Now in this generation to stop this, many plans are being introduced. The government of India has supported us by bringing schemes like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (Save the Daughter, Educate the Daughter) and financial penalty schemes. Under these we make children aware that in India child marriage is legally a crime. In 2016 a new law stated that any person who marries off underage girls will face punishment of either a fine of 1,000 rupees or up to two years in jail.

Now is the age for children to study, to get inspired for education, not for marriage. Therefore, for a stable life, the minimum legal marriage age for girls is 18 and for boys is 21 years. But still many people in slum areas marry off girls at 14 years and boys at 15 years. They are not capable of feeding themselves or running their household. 

To stop child marriage, we should first begin by bringing a new way of thinking into society. By making people aware through new efforts so that awareness increases and they join hands with us to stop child marriage. Thank you.”

Your generosity makes it possible for Payal to pursue her degree, find her voice, grow her confidence, and become a leader who will change the culture for countless others. Thank you for your Divine Love in action.