Correct option is A
The correct answer is (a) B.M. Malabari. Behramji Malabari was a social reformer and activist who played a crucial role in the passage of the Age of Consent Bill in 1891. The bill sought to raise the age of consent for sexual intercourse for girls from 10 to 12 years within marriage. Malabari's persistent efforts and his campaign against child marriage and social evils were instrumental in bringing about this legislation, which was a significant step towards social reform in colonial India.
Important Key Points:
· The Age of Consent Bill was passed in 1891, raising the age of consent for girls to 12 years.
· B.M. Malabari was a key figure in advocating for this legislation.
· Malabari was also known for his efforts against child marriage and other social evils.
· The passage of the bill marked an important step towards the protection of women’s rights in colonial India.
· The bill was part of broader social reform movements during British rule.
· Malabari's efforts highlighted the need for legal intervention in social practices.
Knowledge Booster:
· Bal Gangadhar Tilak: A prominent freedom fighter, Tilak opposed the Age of Consent Bill, arguing that it interfered with Hindu traditions.
· Harbilas Sharda: Known for the Sharda Act of 1929, which further raised the age of marriage for girls, but not associated with the 1891 bill.
· Mahadev Govind Ranade: A social reformer who supported various social reforms but was not directly linked to the Age of Consent Bill.