Lucknow, May 19: The Uttar Pradesh government, under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, is making significant strides in ensuring the safety of women and children. Recent actions have effectively prevented child marriages, as seen in Auraiya district. A joint operation involving local administration, police, Child Helpline 1098, and the Child Welfare Committee successfully halted the marriage of two underage sisters.
This intervention not only safeguarded the girls’ lives and education but also raised awareness about legal rights within the community. The incident occurred in a village under the jurisdiction of the Airwa Katra police station, where Protection Officer Reena Chauhan received a tip-off via the 1098 helpline regarding the impending marriage of two minors.
Upon receiving the information, a team from the district administration and relevant departments promptly arrived at the scene to investigate. It was discovered that one sister was recorded as 18 years old, but the boy she was to marry was only 17 years and 4 months. The other sister was found to be just 14 years and 11 days old. Consequently, both marriages were deemed illegal under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006.
The rescue team informed the family about the legal requirements, stating that the minimum age for a girl to marry is 18 years, while for a boy, it is 21 years. The government is consistently working to convey that the education and safety of daughters are top priorities.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has previously instructed officials to adopt a zero-tolerance policy towards incidents of child marriage, women’s exploitation, and child labor. This has led to prompt interventions by administrative teams in sensitive cases.
C. Indumati, Director of the Women Welfare Directorate, stated that upon receiving the report of child marriage, the Auraiya district administration, police, Child Helpline 1098, and the Child Welfare Committee acted immediately. The investigation confirmed that the ages were below the legal marriage age.
She emphasized that under the guidance of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the Mission Shakti campaign continuously raises awareness about the rights of women and girls. Additionally, awareness campaigns against social evils like child marriage are conducted regularly.
Indumati noted that the administration, police, and child protection units are taking immediate action on any reports received. The goal is not only to prevent child marriage but also to ensure the education, safety, and rights of daughters are protected.
–
Leave a Comment