In the rural areas of Mugu, child marriage and the Chhaupadi practice still have deep roots. Joint efforts by local leaders, social activists, and women in the district have somewhat mitigated these practices. According to Ward Chair Junbahadur Khadka of Chhayanath Rara Municipality–14, there have been 62 cases of child marriage in the past three years. He stated, “We are running campaigns to eradicate harmful practices like child marriage and Chhaupadi. Strict measures will be taken at both legal and social levels.”
Additionally, Khadka mentioned plans to make ward approval mandatory for marriages and to cut off services and facilities for those involved in harmful practices as a means of prevention.
Jasma Baduwal, 24, from Bam village, Chhayanath Rara Municipality–14, who was married at a very young age, is currently experiencing serious health issues. Married before turning 17, she is now a mother of three children. She shared, “Early marital responsibilities and motherhood have affected my health, and I am concerned.”
She is just one representative case. Due to traditional social superstitions and cultural malpractice, child marriage in Mugu continues to contribute to reproductive health problems, particularly uterine prolapse, and a high dropout rate from schools. Not only in Mugu, but in various districts of Karnali and Sudurpashchim provinces, child marriage, along with the Chhaupadi practice, has also taken deep roots. Because of religious superstitions, women are affected not only physically but also mentally and in terms of reproductive health.
Since traditional beliefs and superstitions are still deeply entrenched in society, further awareness and dedicated efforts are essential to eliminate these harmful practices and steer society toward positive change.