Rising Trend of Court Marriages: Who Bears the Responsibility?

Tariq Bhat

In recent times, there has been a noticeable increase in cases where young girls choose to marry local boys through court procedures without informing their parents. Following these marriages, the couples often turn to social media, seeking protection from the authorities, claiming that their families might harm them. This phenomenon raises profound questions about responsibility, respect, and the balance between individual rights and familial duties.

 

 

 

 

Perspective of the Parents: When Tradition Collides with Modern Choices

Parents invest their entire lives in nurturing their children. They work tirelessly, making countless sacrifices to ensure their children have a comfortable life, proper education, and the best opportunities. For many parents, their children are the embodiment of their hopes and dreams. When these children, now young adults, make life-altering decisions such as marriage without involving their families, it can feel like a betrayal. The shock is often accompanied by a sense of loss, as parents might feel they no longer have a say in their children’s lives, despite having guided them for years.

 

 

 

In traditional societies, marriage is seen as a family affair rather than an individual choice. The idea that children could decide on such a significant aspect of life independently is unsettling for many. When these young couples elope and then seek protection, it intensifies the parents’ feelings of helplessness and frustration. For some, this act is seen as a direct affront to the cultural values that emphasize familial bonds, obedience, and collective decision-making.

 

 

 

The Rights of the Youth: Navigating Love, Independence, and Familial Expectations

 

 

On the other hand, as children grow into adults, they develop their own sense of identity, values, and desires. The right to choose a life partner is a fundamental one. Legally, once a person reaches adulthood, they are entitled to make their own decisions, including those about marriage. Court marriages, in particular, are legal and recognized by the law. The youth often argue that love, mutual respect, and understanding are the cornerstones of a successful marriage, not the approval of family or societal norms.

For many young people, the decision to marry without informing their parents is not one made lightly. They often fear that their choices will be met with disapproval, or worse, hostility. The recourse to social media and public appeals for protection underscores the fear and anxiety these young couples feel. In their eyes, they are not rebelling but rather asserting their right to live their lives on their own terms.

Who is to Blame?

The question of responsibility is complex. On one hand, parents have a duty to raise their children with values that balance tradition and modernity, teaching them the importance of family while also respecting their independence. On the other hand, young adults must understand the deep emotional bonds and expectations that come with being part of a family. They need to weigh their decisions carefully, considering not just their happiness but also the potential repercussions on their families.

 

 

 

 

Blame, however, is not a productive approach. Instead, this situation calls for introspection and dialogue. Families need to foster open communication where children feel comfortable discussing their life choices without fear of retribution. Parents must also adapt to the changing times, recognizing that their children live in a world vastly different from the one they grew up in.

 

 

 

The rise in court marriages without parental consent is a symptom of a deeper rift between generations. It highlights the need for mutual understanding, respect, and adaptation on both sides. While parents should be acknowledged for their sacrifices, it is equally important to recognize the autonomy of the youth. Ultimately, the solution lies in bridging the gap between tradition and modernity, where both parents and children can coexist in a space of love, respect, and shared values.

 

[The editorial is based on current research and my personal opinion, which I have discussed with many people who conducted research on this topic. The opinion is grounded in both facts and the perspectives of others. Tariq Bhat Editor-In-Chief]