Kota: Two Class 12 Girls Seek Help to Stop Forced Marriages, Authorities Intervene
In a significant development in Kota, two Class 12 minor girls from Bundi district urgently sought intervention from local authorities on Friday to halt their forced marriages, which were scheduled for February 10. Police and the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) have promptly initiated action to prevent these child marriages and ensure the safety and well-being of the young girls.
First Case: 17-Year-Old Girl Appeals to Police
The first case unfolded when a 17-year-old girl approached Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Rajesh Tailer on Friday, making an urgent plea for assistance to stop her impending marriage. Responding swiftly, the police issued a prohibitory order aimed at halting the marriage until the girl reaches the legal age of 18. DSP Tailer summoned the girl's parents and relatives to educate them about the severe legal repercussions of child marriage and its long-term negative effects on the young girl's future.
Seema Poddar, chairperson of the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) in Bundi, confirmed that comprehensive measures have been implemented to ensure the minor's protection. These measures include arranging for her stay at a government shelter home, providing a secure environment away from potential coercion.
Second Case: 16-Year-Old Student Alerts Authorities
In the second case, a 16-year-old girl, who is studying through an open schooling system, alerted the CWC about her planned marriage to a 20-year-old man from Bhilwara district. Despite the wedding being scheduled for February 10, her parents allegedly attempted to expedite the marriage to February 9 after she informed the authorities about her situation.
Through the collaborative efforts of the CWC, Childline, and local police, the girl was successfully located and taken into protective custody. She is currently placed in a safe environment, ensuring her security until the marriage date passes, with ongoing monitoring to prevent any further attempts.
Focus on Education and Future Prospects
Recognising the immense academic pressure on both students, especially with exams approaching, CWC chairperson Seema Poddar emphasized that the committee will communicate with relevant educational authorities. This initiative aims to facilitate a potential change in their examination centers, ensuring that the girls can sit for their tests without additional stress, thereby safeguarding their educational futures.
Key Actions Taken by Authorities:
- Issuance of prohibitory orders to halt marriages until legal age is reached.
- Educational sessions with parents on legal consequences of child marriage.
- Placement of girls in protective custody and government shelter homes.
- Coordination with educational bodies to support exam participation.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of child marriage in the region and underscores the critical role of authorities in enforcing laws and protecting minors. The proactive steps taken by police and the CWC serve as a reminder of the importance of community awareness and legal adherence in preventing such practices.
