The court's decision comes after requesting an updated status report on child marriages, implementation efforts, and government policies, indicating a focus on addressing concerns raised by an NGO about the Act's effective enforcement.
The Supreme Court has granted the Central Government an additional six weeks to gather information and file an affidavit regarding the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, and the measures taken to enforce its provisions. This decision comes after the apex court had previously requested an updated status report, emphasizing the need for comprehensive data on child marriages, steps taken to implement the Act, and the central government's policies in this regard.
Furthermore, the court has directed the Centre to engage with the states to provide an update on compliance with the appointment of child marriage prohibition officers as mandated by Section 16 of the Act. The court had also expressed a desire for clarification in its April 13 order, specifically addressing any additional responsibilities imposed on these officers.
The matter was heard by a bench led by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud on Friday. Responding to the request made by Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, the bench granted the Union government six weeks to compile the necessary information and file the affidavit. The petition is scheduled to be listed for further hearing on September 1, 2023, before the bench consisting of Justices P S Narasimha and Manoj Misra.
The Supreme Court is currently examining a plea filed by an NGO that raises concerns about the implementation of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006.