Bengaluru: The Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (KSCPCR) has urged the govt to ensure proper verification of age proof during marriage registrations to prevent child marriages.Expressing concern that accepting only Aadhaar as proof of age could increase cases of underage marriages, the panel has called for strict implementation of the Child Marriage Prohibition (Karnataka) Rules, 2014.In a recent letter to the inspector general of registration and commissioner of stamps, KSCPCR urged the authorities to accept birth certificates, school records, SSLC marks cards or, if required, medical certificates for age verification instead of relying solely on Aadhaar.
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Former KSCPCR member KT Thippeswamy, who submitted the representation through the commission, stated that Aadhaar is primarily an identity document and cannot be considered conclusive proof of age, as the date of birth mentioned on it may be based on self-declaration or supporting documents.The panel has asked the registration department to issue clear instructions to all marriage registration officers against relying solely on Aadhaar for age verification. It has also suggested conducting awareness programmes for officials and taking action against those who violate the prescribed procedure.“Preventing child marriages is the responsibility of every member of society. Effective implementation of the law is essential to ensure a safe future for children. Authorities should not depend only on Aadhaar as proof of age,” Thippeswamy said.
