Report Finds High Child Marriage Rates Across Social Groups in Telangana
HYDERABAD: Child marriage continues across communities in Telangana, including socially and economically advanced groups, a report by the State-level body SEEEPC shows.
OC Iyengars and Iyers reported the highest incidence at 21.2%, followed by OC Jains at 11%. These figures stand far above the State average of 5%.
This average translates to about 2.16 lakh girls below 18 getting married in Telangana. The rate among Iyengars and Iyers is more than five times the average. Among Jains, it is over double.
Across communities
The findings show that child marriage is not limited to disadvantaged sections. It cuts across social groups, including those with stronger socio-economic status.
Among girls, the rate ranges from 2% in OC Kapu communities, the lowest, to 8% in BC-A Gangiredlavaru.
The report also highlights higher incidence among OC Muslims and BC-E Shaik Muslims. Early marriage among girls appears in every community.
Gender link
The report stresses the role of gender equality in tackling the issue. It says communities progress faster when women are educated, financially independent, and socially empowered.
It adds that gender plays a central role in development and should not be treated as a secondary factor.
