In a shocking case from Haryana, the Yamunanagar women police station has arrested a man for allegedly orchestrating the marriage of his underage daughter by fabricating her age documents. The incident, which highlights the persistent issues of child marriage and dowry demands, unfolded in the Chhachhrauli area.
Father Apprehended After Mother's Complaint
The accused, identified as Hardeep, a resident of a village under the Chhapar police station, was taken into custody and later produced before a court. The court has sent him to judicial custody. This arrest followed a complaint filed by the minor girl's own mother on June 20, setting the legal process in motion.
According to police officials, the mother's complaint revealed a distressing situation. She alleged that after the marriage, her young daughter was subjected to harassment for dowry and was eventually thrown out of her in-laws' home. This complaint became the catalyst for a deeper probe into the circumstances of the wedding itself.
Investigation Uncovers Collusion and Forgery
During the subsequent investigation, authorities made a critical discovery: the girl was only 17 years old at the time of her marriage in December 2024, legally making her a minor. The probe further revealed that both her parents had allegedly colluded to submit false information regarding her age to facilitate the wedding.
Station House Officer Sheelawanti provided more context, stating that the complainant mother had initially reported that her daughter had eloped with a youth. Their marriage was then solemnized. However, the union quickly turned sour, with the girl facing taunts and pressure for more dowry. The police investigation pierced through this narrative to find parental involvement in the illegal arrangement.
Marriage Bureau Role and Prior Arrest
The police spokesperson also indicated that the wedding was arranged through a marriage bureau, where the false details were submitted. This points to a potential failure in the bureau's verification process. It is noteworthy that the girl's mother was arrested earlier in the same case, underscoring the alleged complicity of both parents in the crime.
This case from Yamunanagar throws a stark light on the grim realities of child marriage and dowry harassment that continue to plague parts of the country. The police action, triggered by a family member's complaint, demonstrates the legal repercussions for those who conspire to violate laws protecting minors. The judicial custody of the father marks a significant step in holding perpetrators accountable.
