The Child Marriage Restraint Act, popularly known as Sarda Act was passed in the year 1929. Which of the following statements regarding the act is incorrect?
The Act was applicable to Hindus only and not to other communities.
Correct AnswerThe act fixed age of marriage for girls at 14 and for boys at 18.
Incorrect AnswerThe act was sponsored by Harbilas Sarda a member of Central Legislative Assembly.
Incorrect AnswerThe act was an outcome of organized women’s groups of the country.
Incorrect AnswerExplanation:
- Sarda act originally known as Child Marriage Restraint Act 1929 was passed during viceroyalty of Lord Irwin.This act fixed minimum age for girls as 14 years and that of boys as 18 years. This act applied to whole of British India not just Hindus.
- It was a result of social reform movement in India. In British India this was first time that Indian women played an organized role against a social evil. First time Indian women played a role in political field. All India Women's Conference,National Council of Women in India and Women's India Association were the organizations who fought against the evil of child marriage.
- The All India Women's Conference gave a popular slogan to force Congress leaders listen to their voice - "Pass Sharda Act otherwise the world will laugh at you."
- It was the impact of these organisations that Gandhiji started speaking publicly against child marriages. Even Muslim women joined these orgs. even after having strong threats from Maulanas.
- This act came into force on 1st April 1930. Even though this was
- a victory for women of India but due to lacunae in law enforcement agencies and judiciary the act itself became a complete failure.
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By: Abhipedia