South Dinajpur police book decorators, caterers, and priests in child marriage case
The South Dinajpur police in West Bengal have booked decorators, caterers, priests, videographers, and wedding hall staff for allegedly participating in a child marriage that was foiled at the last moment on May 10. The local police and the members of Shakti Vahini NGO rescued the victim from the wedding venue.
'The minor girl, 17, was reportedly being compelled to marry a 25-year-old man. While the timely intervention prevented the solemnization of the marriage, a comprehensive list of attendees who were present that day and actively participated in the arrangements has also been drawn up,' said a senior police officer.
Reacting to the First Information Report (FIR), a representative of the local Shakti Vahini stated, 'It is extremely critical to take strict action against people involved in the marriage to raise accountability.'
'The investigation into the matter is underway, and the girl has been sent to a home for counselling. If the report of the child protection officer turns out to be positive, then the girl will be reunited with her family,' said Mijanur Rahaman, a member of the Shakti Vahini and the complainant in the case.
Bijin Krishna, District Magistrate, South Dinajpur, stated, 'Child marriage is quite prevalent in the district. The complaints we receive represent only about one-tenth of the actual number of child marriages taking place. By analysing teenage pregnancy data, we gain insights into vulnerable pockets and blocks. Ending child marriage is no small task, but many small actions can create significant change.'
He also informed that the district administration has developed a comprehensive database of all teenage girls across the district from the panchayat level to help prevent child marriages.
Rishi Kant, a member of the Shakti Vahini, said, 'Recently, the Supreme Court, in its judgment on child marriage, directed the appointment of Child Marriage Prevention Officers to reach out to rural areas and create a conducive environment for preventing child marriage. It is important to spread the message that child marriage is a crime and anyone and everyone found involved in it will be prosecuted.
'The West Bengal government has mandated that in child marriage incidents, FIRs must be filed and reach the DGP's office within 24 hours. As per the National Family Health Report and NCRB data, Bengal is one of the worst states in terms of child marriage. We are seeing a series of awareness programs happening, and now, slowly, the fear of the law is emerging among people.'
Meanwhile, district officials said they have set a goal to make South Dinajpur a child marriage-free district by 2030.
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