A pre-wedding photoshoot uploaded on social media platforms led to the rescue of a 15-year-old girl from a child marriage in Maharashtra's Beed district, officials said on Sunday. District Collector Vivek Johnson received a tip-off after images from the shoot were posted online, prompting immediate action.
The wedding between the minor and a 23-year-old man in Georai tehsil was stopped on June 19, according to Child Welfare Committee (CWC) chairperson Ashok Tangade. The collector directed the District Women and Child Development officials to intervene without delay.
Rescue operation based on social media tip
A rescue team rushed to the village but initially found no overt signs of a wedding ceremony. However, they noticed bridal henna on the minor's hands bearing the groom's name. Taking the pre-wedding photos as evidence, the team took the girl into protective custody. Tangade confirmed that further investigation is underway and action will be taken against those involved.
The growing trend of uploading pre-wedding photoshoots and reels on social media inadvertently helped authorities detect and prevent this illegal union. Child marriage remains a serious offence in India under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006.
Official response and ongoing probe
District officials emphasized the role of vigilant citizens who reported the photos. The Women and Child Development department is probing how the marriage was arranged and who facilitated it. The rescued girl has been provided shelter and counselling.
This incident highlights the potential of social media as a tool for social vigilance, though experts caution against privacy violations. The CWC is coordinating with local police to ensure strict legal action against the groom and family members involved.
