The rate of child marriage in Kurigram remains alarmingly high, with the overall district rate standing at 51 percent. The climate impacted char areas and hard to reach villages are particularly at higher risk. Poverty, lack of education, and low social awareness have been identified as the key factors contributing to this situation.

This information was presented at a discussion meeting titled “Exchange of views on judicial involvement and implementation of legal framework to reduce child marriage,” organized by the social purpose organization Friendship on Monday afternoon, November 30, 2025. The keynote address was delivered by Friendship’s Assistant General Manager (Legal), Advocate Md. Ashiquzzaman. Senior District and Sessions Judge Mosammat Ismat Ara attended the event as a chairperson.

In his keynote presentation, Md. Ashiquzzaman stated, “The rate of child marriage is particularly high in the char areas of Kurigram. A 2022 survey showed that 51 percent of girls in the district are victims of child marriage. The main reasons behind this are the low level of education among women and the financial hardships faced by families.”

He further added, “Friendship has strengthened its awareness activities in project areas. We are specifically reaching out to girls as well as their guardians. Education and skill-development initiatives have also been expanded.”

Advocate Bazlur Rashid, General Secretary of the Kurigram District Bar Association, also spoke at the meeting. He said, “Since poverty levels are high in the char areas, the prevalence of child marriage is also higher. We need to reflect on why this rate remains so high in Kurigram. Child marriage will not decrease without ensuring girls’ education and improving the living standards of people living in the char regions.”

In her speech as the chairperson, Senior District and Sessions Judge Mosammat Ismat Ara mentioned, “In areas where child marriage is more common, especially in the char regions, girls need to be made work-oriented. I urge NGOs to teach girls various skills, including sewing and tailoring, so that they can engage in income-generating activities. It is not enough to make only girls aware—guardians and local public representatives must also be made aware.”

District Legal Aid Officer (Senior Assistant Judge) Bhagabati Rani, Friendship Team Leader Rummanul Ferdous, General Manager Ekramul Haque, among others, also spoke at the meeting.

The meeting emphasized the need for coordinated efforts by the judiciary, lawyers, local administration, and development workers to prevent child marriage.