Uttar Pradesh Social Welfare Department Implements Stricter Controls After Mass Marriage Scheme Violations
The Department of Social Welfare in Uttar Pradesh is implementing rigorous enforcement measures following significant violations reported during a mass marriage ceremony organized in Moradabad in December 2025. The department is determined to prevent recurrence of such illegalities through enhanced monitoring and stricter adherence to established protocols.
Moradabad Ceremony Exposes Major Regulatory Breaches
A critical violation that emerged from the Moradabad event involved the number of participating couples. Against the established cap of 100 couples permitted at a single ceremony, approximately 850 couples were married on that day, creating substantial administrative chaos and safety concerns. Social Welfare Minister Asim Arun emphasized that this incident prompted immediate departmental action.
"After thoroughly examining the mass marriage scheme guidelines, we concluded that 100 couples, representing approximately 5,000 attendees, constitutes the maximum manageable number for ensuring safety and organizing a dignified ceremony," Minister Arun explained to TOI. "The Moradabad event, with 850 couples, resulted in complete confusion. A three-member investigation committee has been specifically tasked with determining who authorized this program."
Department Identifies High-Risk Districts and Strengthens Oversight
In response to the Moradabad incident, the social welfare department identified nine districts where programs involving more than 100 couples were planned. These districts received strict directives to cancel such events immediately. The minister confirmed that a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) already exists for organizing ceremonies under the mass marriage scheme, with previous communications sent to District Magistrates emphasizing rule compliance.
To improve coordination, a dedicated command center has been established to facilitate communication between districts and the department. Instructions have been issued to organize these programs at the block level, ensuring better local oversight and management.
Critical Observer Requirement Violated and Now Enforced Strictly
Another significant rule violation during the Moradabad ceremony was the absence of designated observers. According to departmental regulations, it is mandatory for block or district authorities to invite an official from the social welfare department of a neighboring district to serve as an Observer during marriage ceremonies. Minister Arun asserted that this requirement will now be implemented with zero tolerance for non-compliance.
As per the SOP issued by the department last year, ceremonies should involve 100 couples or fewer at any location, unless conducted under the direct supervision of the District Magistrate. During events, a registration counter must be established to verify couple eligibility according to scheme criteria.
Enhanced Verification Protocols and Reporting Mechanisms
The department has instituted robust verification procedures to maintain scheme integrity. The deputy director of the division and the district social welfare officer from a nearby district will be deputed to oversee event arrangements and submit detailed reports to the department.
"The SOP includes provisions for random verification of 10% of selected couples participating in the scheme," a departmental official stated. "These checks are conducted by officers from revenue or other departments under District Magistrate guidance. A district-level committee supervises the verification process, with investigating officers submitting their reports in a specified format through the departmental portal."
The Uttar Pradesh government's renewed focus on strict implementation of mass marriage scheme regulations reflects its commitment to ensuring orderly, safe, and properly managed ceremonies that respect both administrative guidelines and the dignity of participating couples.
