JUMLA, April 6:  The women of Jumla have now started to understand the reality that our society can become a good society only if we embrace the concept of ‘marry after twenty’.

Women who have experienced regret over marrying at a young age have begun to speak out about their experiences, sharing that the future they envisioned as bright has become shrouded in darkness due to their decision to marry at an immature age. According to these individuals, entering into a marriage without having developed the necessary problem-solving skills to navigate the challenges that inevitably arise can lead to significant misery in one's life.

Jadeni Budha, a resident of Jumla Patarasi-5, recently expressed deep regret over her decision to get married at a young age when she was still able to read, write, and enjoy life. Now 35 years old, Budha recalls how, at the age of 16, she had not given much thought to the future and had entered into marriage without much consideration. However, as she looks back on her life, she now considers this decision to have been a curse, one that has caused her a great deal of pain and suffering.

She said, “I deeply regret my marriage, because of this I am unemployed and I am suffering the consequences of my marriage.”

Rita Khadka, a 26-year-old woman, recently revealed that her future remains uncertain due to the implications of her child marriage. She explained that her parents had arranged her marriage, despite her own desires and aspirations. As a result, Khadka has been forced to manage a household, care for young children, and remain confined to her home, leading a life filled with dissatisfaction and constant worry.

Khadka further lamented that her parents viewed her as a burden and did not see value in educating their daughter, ultimately leading to her early marriage. Similarly, Rajkala Bohora, who also married at a young age during her 8th grade, spoke of how she was coerced into marriage by her family's insistence. As a result, she was unable to continue her education and is now consumed with domestic responsibilities, leaving little time or opportunity for personal growth.

Fortunately, the Women and Children's Division under Patarasi Rural Municipality is now spearheading a campaign to eradicate child marriage. Led by Bhagwati Giri, the division is working to create a future where young girls can pursue their dreams and aspirations without the fear of being married off at a young age.

 
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