Sierra Leone [[bans::To prohibit something through legal methods.]] [[child marriage::It refers to the marriage between a child under the age of 18 with an adult or another child.]]
The government of Sierra Leone, a country in West Africa, made a new law that bans child marriage.
Under this new rule, if a man marries an [[underage::A girl who is not an adult and is below the age of 18.]] girl, he could go to jail and would have to pay a fine. Even parents or people at the wedding could get fined.
India on child marriage
Indian law doesn’t allow child marriage. Even though fewer child marriages are happening now, they still happen in many states.
Many [[NGOs::Stands for non-governmental organisations. An organisation that attempts to achieve social or political goals but is not overseen by a government]] are working to stop this and have rescued underage girls from getting married.
How serious is this issue?
It's a big problem. Instead of going to school, playing with friends, and learning new things, some children are forced to get married against their wishes.
Reports say one in five girls are married as children worldwide. In Sierra Leone, many girls are married before they're eighteen.
Harmful effects of child marriage
Child marriage takes away a child's childhood. Girls in these marriages often become victims of violence at home and are asked to leave school.
If you see a child getting married, tell your parents right away. Explain why child marriage is wrong and illegal.
Quick Revision
Sierra Leone has made a law banning child marriage. People involved can go to jail or pay fines.
India also does not allow child marriage, but it still happens in some places.
Child marriage stops children from studying, playing, and enjoying childhood.
1 in 5 girls worldwide are married before 18 years.
It is illegal and harmful. If you see it, tell an adult immediately.
