FAITH LEADERS UNITE FOR NATIONWIDE CHILD MARRIAGE CAMPAIGN

On July 22, faith leaders representing Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, Christianity, Buddhism, Baha’i, Jainism, Judaism, and Zoroastrianism joined our Interfaith Dialogue on Child Marriage, in Delhi. Focusing on the importance of unity in this cause, and the need for all children to have access to protection, education, and development, the faith leaders agreed to take definitive action to prevent child marriage.

“Muslim religious leaders have a vital role in making people aware of the rights of the girl child. Our Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, clearly stipulates provisions empowering girls which makes it obligatory for Islamic clerics and scholars to protect this vulnerable section of our society. Child marriage among Muslims could be eliminated by getting them out of poverty, raising their education level, and making women aware of their rights in society.”  Dr. M. Iqbal Siddiqui, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind

“Child marriage is an issue across all religions and communities and all of us faith leaders are together in seeking a solution to end child marriage.” Goswami Sushil Ji Maharaj, renowned Hindu spiritual leader

A six-point pledge was made at the end of the event, which included a commitment to display anti-child marriage messages at all religious places, and support for all children and families to receive access to the kind of public services which address the root causes of child marriage.