Caselet 3 - Child Marriage and Ethical Intervention

Introduction to the Dilemma00:00:00

Naveena, an SBI Youth for India fellow, teaches women in a village to read and write. She learns that one of her students plans to marry off her 14-year-old daughter.

Mother's Justification and Daughter's Situation00:00:15

The mother is ill, a widow, and her daughter is her only support. The daughter has stopped schooling and works in other households, and has seemingly agreed to the marriage.

Attempts to Intervene and Mother's Refusal00:00:31

Despite attempts by Naveena and NGOs to stop the marriage, the mother refuses to reconsider.

Ethical Conflict00:00:38

Naveena acknowledges that child marriage is illegal but she also understands the mother's concerns. She questions whether to intervene and risk breaking trust with the community, or remain silent and allow the marriage to proceed.