Two Rajasthan Class 12 Students Seek Official Intervention to Halt Forced Marriages
In a significant development highlighting the ongoing battle against child marriage in India, two teenage girls studying in Class 12 in Rajasthan's Bundi district have courageously approached authorities to stop their forced marriages, both scheduled for February 10. Officials confirmed the cases on Saturday, revealing a determined effort by local child protection agencies to uphold the law and safeguard the minors.
First Case: 17-Year-Old Seeks Police Intervention
A 17-year-old girl took the bold step of reaching out to the office of Talera Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Rajesh Tailer on Friday, formally requesting assistance to halt her proposed marriage. According to reports from the news agency PTI, DSP Tailer promptly initiated the legal process by moving to issue a prohibitory order against the marriage.
The girl's parents and family members were summoned to the police office where they were comprehensively informed about the legal provisions concerning child marriage and the severe consequences of violating these laws. Bundi Child Welfare Committee (CWC) chairperson Seema Poddar confirmed that a formal prohibitory order will be issued, legally preventing the girl's parents from conducting her marriage until she reaches the legal age of 18.
To ensure her immediate safety and well-being, the minor has been transferred to a government shelter home where she will remain under protective custody.
Second Case: 16-Year-Old's Marriage Thwarted Through Swift Action
In a strikingly similar incident, a 16-year-old girl approached the Child Welfare Committee on Monday seeking intervention to stop her marriage, which was also scheduled for February 10. The girl, who is pursuing her Class 12 education through open schooling, was to be married to a 20-year-old man from Bhilwara district.
Upon discovering that their daughter had informed the authorities, the girl's parents attempted to circumvent the legal process by trying to advance the marriage date to February 9 and relocate the minor. However, through coordinated and swift action by the CWC in partnership with Childline and local police authorities, the girl was successfully traced and taken into protective custody.
She has now been placed in a safe home where she will remain until after the scheduled marriage date, ensuring her complete protection from any potential coercion or pressure from her family.
Educational Support and Broader Context
Regarding the academic futures of both girls, CWC chairperson Seema Poddar stated that the committee will formally request concerned educational authorities to change their examination centers to accommodate their current protective arrangements. The CWC has committed to taking full responsibility for addressing their educational needs during this period of transition and protection.
Poddar also highlighted a significant statistic, noting that Bundi district stands out as the only district in Rajasthan where more than half a dozen prohibitory orders have been issued specifically to prevent child marriages. This indicates both the prevalence of the practice in certain regions and the determined enforcement efforts by local authorities.
Official Appeal to Public and Parents
The Child Welfare Committee has issued a strong appeal to citizens and parents across the district to cooperate fully in eliminating the harmful practice of child marriage. Authorities emphasize the critical importance of ensuring girls' education and safety, respecting existing laws, and protecting children's fundamental rights.
Officials have urged the public to report any information related to child marriages immediately to Childline at the toll-free number 1098 or to contact local administration offices directly. This collaborative approach between authorities and communities represents a crucial strategy in combating this deep-rooted social issue.
