Child marriage of girls: A violation to health in Malda district, West Bengal

Child marriage remains a widely ignored violation of health in addition to development rights of girls and young women. Child marriage is often associated with multiple health risks. The majority are exposed to early and frequent sexual relations; repeated pregnancies and child-birth before they are ready to shoulder the responsibilities of marriage and childbearing. As a result, different diseases, health complication, maternal death, abnormal childbirth etc. are being associated with this practice. Early marriage is a common practice in Malda, a district of West Bengal. In the latest District Level Household Survey (DLHS-3) in 2007–08, the percentage of child marriage in Malda district is 56.7 per cent having 2nd rank in the state. In this study attempt has been made to analyze and map the spatial distribution of this practice and also to reveal its harmful consequences on health. Finally, perception survey has been conducted to find out the causes of its perpetuation.