In a decisive action against child marriage, police and officials in Lohardaga district of Jharkhand thwarted a wedding ceremony in Kocha village under Kisko police station limits and arrested the groom for violating legal provisions.
Incident Details
The incident came to light on Thursday when authorities received a tip-off about the marriage. According to police, the wedding rituals had just concluded when the groom, identified as Lachhu Oraon, a resident of Brambe village under Mandar police station limits in Ranchi district, was taken into custody. The minor bride, aged 16, was safely rescued and subsequently sent to a shelter home for protection and counseling.
Police Response
Officer-in-charge of Kisko police station Manas Kumar and Kisko circle officer Ajay Kumar stated that as soon as the team received information about the child marriage, they rushed to the spot and stopped the ceremony. The groom was arrested the same night after examining documents related to the girl's age, which confirmed she was 16 years old. The bride was rescued and sent to a shelter home. Further investigation is ongoing.
Legal Action
A complaint was lodged under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006 against both families and the tribal priest who officiated the wedding. The police are investigating all those involved in the illegal marriage.
About the Author
K A Gupta covers Gumla, Lohardaga and Simdega districts in Jharkhand. He writes on a wide range of topics including social issues, human interest stories, naxal activities, and sports.
