The Juvenile Act, 1992, has imposed a strict ban on child marriage in the country. Unfortunately, however, child marriage is still prevalent in some parts of Nepal. Take for instance the Gandharba community of Pathariya Village Development Committee in Jhapa. Around 33 families of this community openly accept child marriage with pride. Reportedly, these people, who are sarangi players and singers by profession, are not fully aware that child marriages are forbidden by law in Nepal. They rather feel that they have succeeded in giving continuity to their age-old custom and belief.

Clearly, child marriage still occurs because of the lack of awareness among the Gandharba and other communities in the country. It is obvious that even after mobilising quite a few NGOs and local bodies to spread awareness, the campaigns and programmes have not proved to be effective. If people are unaware, illiterate and isolated, no law can be properly implemented nor can they be lifted out of orthodox beliefs and traditional lifestyles. Moreover, at times, it is difficult and also inhumane to penalise the poor for their lack of knowledge about social customs and legal provisions. Unbelievable as it may sound, but the fact is only three kids from this community have cleared SLC examination so far. The state must thus provide more opportunities for marginalised communities like this and ensure at least quality primary level education for all of them.