CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: “Strict measures have been taken by the administration to prevent the serious social evil of child marriage. Collector Kaushalendra Vikram Singh noted that during ‘Dev Uthani Ekadashi’ and other auspicious marriage dates, the likelihood of child marriages increases in both urban and rural areas in Madhya Pradesh. To prevent this, public awareness and strict adherence to the law are essential.
The Collector stated that, under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2006, any person, institution, or organization involved in arranging or supporting a child marriage may face up to two years of imprisonment, a fine of up to one lakh rupees, or both. Organizers of mass marriage events have been urged to submit an affidavit to the Collector’s Office and the District Office of Women and Child Development in Bhopal, affirming that no child marriages will take place at their events.
The administration has also appealed to printing presses, caterers, caterers, religious leaders, community heads, bands, horse service providers, and transportation services to verify the age certificates of the bride and groom before offering their services; otherwise, they will also be held accountable as accomplices to child marriage. Printing press operators are also requested to clearly indicate in wedding invitations that the bride and groom are adults.
If you witness a child marriage in your area, immediately report it to the SDM, Tehsildar, police station in-charge, Women and Child Development Project Officer, or Anganwadi worker. Additionally, you can inform Childline at phone number 1098.”
