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Divorce cases are steadily increasing in India. Family court data, reasons, state-wise situation, and social impact show that women’s self-reliance, education, and legal awareness are playing a key role in the increasing trend of divorce. Read an exclusive analysis by veteran journalist Manoj Tibrewal Aakash.
New Delhi: India has seen a nearly 50% increase in divorce cases over the past 20 years. Women are the initiators in 58% of these cases. According to family court studies, approximately 40% of marriages end within the first three years of marriage.
Senior journalist Manoj Tibrewal Aakash said in his special show 'The MTA Speaks' that the average age of women seeking divorce is 31 years, while that of men is 36 years.
There are many reasons behind divorce. Cruelty accounts for approximately 23% of cases, domestic violence for 14.5%, and persistent quarrels for over 11%. Adultery, abandonment, sexual dissatisfaction, mental illness, and religious differences are also reasons for divorce. Divorce is obtained by mutual consent in many cases, accounting for approximately 33%.
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State-wise data shows that Maharashtra has a divorce rate of 18.7%, followed by Karnataka at 11.7%, West Bengal at 8.2%, Delhi at 7.7%, Tamil Nadu at 7.1%, and Telangana at 6.7%. In some states, such as Rajasthan, the rate is lower, at around 2.5%. The rising divorce rate in urban areas is linked to the youth lifestyle, dual-income families, job pressures, and the nuclear family system.
Women's economic independence, education, and legal awareness empower them to make decisions about divorce. Previously, women remained in unhappy marriages due to social pressure and economic dependence. Although divorce can impact children's mental health and family structure, experts believe that peaceful separation is a better option in a toxic and violent environment.
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The divorce rate in India is still low compared to the global average but is rapidly increasing in urban areas. This is not only a sign of family breakdown but also a symbol of women's awareness and self-reliance in society. The quality and understanding of marriages strengthen relationships.
