Abstract

Marriage age, a multifaceted interplay of societal norms and individual autonomy, is the subject of a pressing inquiry within the legal framework of India. This research not only addresses the imperative need for a unified age of consent for marriage, challenging the existing gender-based legal age disparity, but also emphasizes the importance of harmonizing this age with international standards. Beyond the prevention of child marriages, the discourse extends globally, exploring marriage age norms and disparities, with an emphasis on aligning with international benchmarks. The study delves into the societal implications of maintaining distinct marriage ages in India, particularly focusing on age-related stereotypes. It endeavors to contribute to the discourse on marriage age, challenge ingrained stereotypes, and advocate for a more equitable societal landscape, all while emphasizing the harmonization of age standards to avoid conflicts of law. The empirical core of the research unfolds in Tamil Nadu, a culturally diverse state, offering insights into the lived experiences of individuals navigating societal expectations in the realm of marriage. The research poses and answers vital questions, aiming to contribute to the discourse on marriage age, challenge ingrained stereotypes, advocate for a more equitable societal landscape, and emphasize the harmonization of age standards to avoid conflicts of law. The methodology combines a comprehensive global analysis, a critical examination of existing legal frameworks, and an in-depth empirical investigation in Tamil Nadu, employing surveys and statistical analyses to unravel the complex dynamics surrounding marriage age and stereotypes.

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