18. AGE OF CONSENT ACT, 1891

• Passed during Viceroy Lord Lansdowne's tenure, largely due to efforts of reformers like Behramji Malabari.
• Raised the age of consent for consummation of marriage (age of a girl for lawful sexual intercourse, whether married or unmarried) from 10 to 12 years.
• Prompted by the death of a child bride, Phulmoni Dasi, due to marital rape (Calcutta, 1890) — the case that catalyzed the reform.
• Opposed by orthodox sections including Bal Gangadhar Tilak, who saw it as interference in Hindu religious/social customs; supported by reformers like Malabari.

Key Facts

• Year: 1891; Viceroy: Lord Lansdowne; age raised: 10 → 12 years

PART E: THE GOVERNMENT OF INDIA ACT, 1935 AND RELATED DEVELOPMENTS