Arjumand Shah
Srinagar, Nov 28: The delayed marriages among youth in Jammu and Kashmir are emerging as a big social challenge, especially among economically weaker sections.
Financial troubles, unemployment, cultural pressures, and political instability have been identified as some of the primary reasons for this issue.
Despite laws against dowries, the practice continues to persist, burdening families with an enormous financial load.
According to sociologist Dr. Sameena Rashid, “The cost of dowries and lavish ceremonies often prevents families from marrying off their children on time.”
The high unemployment rate in the region further aggravates the situation. “Youth delay marriage due to financial insecurity and the fear of being unable to support a family,” economist Adil Hussain explains.
Political unrests have also affected education and career advancement, which has resulted in the delay of financial independence in marriage. According to the educationist Shabir Ahmad, “Limited job opportunities and disrupted education make it difficult for youth to settle down.”
The consequences of this trend include rising mental health issues, declining birth rates, and a widening gap between rich and poor families. According to Dr. Farooq Wani, psychiatrist, “Delayed marriages take a severe psychological toll on young people and their families”.
Experts recommend the government to ease wedding costs, strict implementation against dowry, employment generation programs, and promoting low-cost, simple marriages. Women rights activist Zahida Mir says, “Cultural reforms that make modest weddings are the way to relief from financial pressures”.
In other words, it is through deepened issues that collaborative efforts involving government, community leaders, and civil society are required to ensure such a growing concern is offered to the youth of Jammu and Kashmir for them to be stable.
