What are the key factors contributing to the high prevalence of child marriage in West Bengal

There are several key factors contributing to the high prevalence of child marriage in West Bengal: - Socioeconomic factors: Poverty and lack of educational opportunities play a significant role in perpetuating child marriage. Families in impoverished communities often resort to child marriage as a means to reduce expenses and secure economic stability. - Gender inequality: Deep-rooted patriarchal norms, gender discrimination, and rigid social norms contribute to child marriage in West Bengal. Girls are often seen as financial burdens and marrying them off at an early age is considered a way to alleviate the family's financial burden. - Limited access to education: Limited access to quality education, particularly for girls, exacerbates the prevalence of child marriage. Lack of education diminishes the prospects of girls finding employment or pursuing higher education, making child marriage a more likely option. - Religious and cultural practices: Certain religious and cultural practices in West Bengal contribute to the persistence of child marriage. These practices prioritize early marriage as a way to maintain social and cultural customs. - Weak legal enforcement: Inadequate implementation and enforcement of laws against child marriage contribute to its prevalence. Lack of awareness and social support systems further hinder the effective intervention and prevention of child marriage in the region. Addressing these factors requires a multifaceted approach that includes providing access to education, empowering women and girls, strengthening legal frameworks, creating awareness, and addressing socioeconomic issues.