Administration Steps Up to Prevent Child Marriages on Akshaya Tritiya
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Nagpur, India: With Akshaya Tritiya approaching — a day historically associated with a spike in child marriages — the district administration has intensified efforts to prevent such unlawful practices. District Collector Dr Vipin Itankar has directed all concerned officers to ensure that no child marriages take place during the occasion in the district.
In support of this directive, CEO of Zilla Parishad, Vinayak Mahamuni, has issued a formal circular instructing officials to take preventive measures. The administration is invoking the Child Marriage Prohibition Act, 2006, which states that marriage is illegal for girls under 18 and boys under 21. Violations of this law can lead to legal action under the Juvenile Justice Act, 2006.
Officials emphasised that legal proceedings can be initiated not only against the families involved, but also against individuals and service providers aiding the marriage — including wedding hall owners, decorators, band members, and priests of any religion.
District Women and Child Development Officer Ranjit Kurhe urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected child marriages to authorities. Citizens can also contact the child helpline at 1098 to raise concerns or lodge complaints.
The administration has called for collective responsibility to curb the social evil of child marriage and protect the rights of minors.
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