SOCIO-ECONOMIC CAUSES AND CONSEQUENCES OF EXCHANGE MARRIAGE (WATTA SATTA) IN RURAL AREAS OF JHANG (A qualitative analysis)

Abstract

Exchange marriages have been practiced for a long time now. People who indulge in this practice consider it to be a guarantee of the safety and security of their female family members who are being married into another family. Watta-satta is overwhelmingly common in rural areas of Pakistan but despite popular belief, it is also practiced worldwide. Couples are usually forced into these types of marriages. This urges us to dig deep into the issues associated with this custom. Objective: This study is organized to shed light on the socio-economic elements responsible for this practice, and the socio-economic backgrounds of families taking part in this tradition. Exchange marriage is very frequent in Jhang. Methodology: This study used Multi-stage sampling. 3 Villages were decided on through a purposive sampling technique. 15 participants were hand-picked for detailed interviews through the convenience sampling technique. The nature of the study was qualitative. Results: This study shed light on the fact that the prime reason for exchange marriage is caste and biradari system where the consent of individuals getting married is not given importance to. Instead, these decisions are taken by the elders of the family or village. Illiterates participate in watta-satta marriages because it ensures a sense of security, loyalty, and mutual benefit for both couples. But it also has negative effects like incompatibility, disputes, and violence between one couple would automatically create conflict between other couple. Most of these marriages end horribly in divorce or death.