In a swift operation, the Uttar Pradesh government machinery successfully prevented the child marriage of two sisters in Auraiya district. The joint effort involved the district administration, local police, Child Helpline 1098, and the Child Welfare Committee, acting on a tip-off about the planned weddings in a village.
Alert and Intervention
Protection officer Reena Chauhan received an alert through the 1098 helpline, prompting officials to rush to the location and initiate an inquiry. Upon investigation, authorities discovered that one of the girls, whose documents indicated she was 18 years old, was to marry a boy aged just 17 years and 4 months. The second girl was found to be only 14 years and 11 days old.
Legal Violation
Officials confirmed that both marriages violated the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006. The rescue team counseled the family on the legal and social implications of child marriage.
Government's Stance
C Indumati, Director of the Women Welfare Directorate, stated, "Under the guidance of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, awareness is continuously being spread regarding the safety and rights of women and girls under the Mission Shakti campaign." She added that awareness campaigns are conducted regularly to combat social evils like child marriage. "On receiving any information, the administration, police, and child protection units take immediate action. Our objective is not only to stop child marriage but also to ensure the protection of daughters' education, safety, and rights," she emphasized.
Broader Impact
This incident highlights the effectiveness of the state's child protection mechanisms and the importance of community vigilance. The Mission Shakti campaign, launched by the Uttar Pradesh government, aims to empower women and girls through education, safety, and legal awareness. The successful intervention in Auraiya serves as a model for other districts to follow.
Authorities have urged citizens to report any instances of child marriage to the Child Helpline 1098, ensuring timely action. The rescued sisters have been provided with counseling and support to continue their education and lead a life free from early marriage.
