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Thenewsdose.com
Chandigarh, July 16, UPDATED:4.40PM
In a significant step under the Punjab Government’s ongoing campaign to eliminate child marriages, two impending child marriages were successfully averted in the Gurdaspur district. The swift action reflects the growing effectiveness of the state’s multi-agency coordination and its commitment to child protection.
Sharing this update, Punjab Cabinet Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development, Dr. Baljit Kaur, stated that the proactive intervention came as a result of seamless coordination among the district administration, local police, the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs), village-level Child Welfare Committees, and Child Helpline teams.
The two cases were reported from Sahane Chak village (Block Kalanaur) and Gandhian Paniar village (Block Gurdaspur). Upon receiving information about the proposed marriages, concerned authorities immediately intervened, halting the arrangements in time and ensuring compliance with legal provisions.
Dr. Baljit Kaur emphasized that under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, marrying a girl below 18 years of age or a boy below 21 is a criminal offense. “Timely intervention was key. The families involved were thoroughly counselled regarding the legal consequences, along with the long-term health, educational, and emotional implications of child marriage,” she said.
The Minister further stated that the Government of Punjab, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is committed to eradicating child marriages through sustained legal action and awareness campaigns. “We are not just reacting to incidents, but working proactively to ensure prevention through education, community engagement, and empowerment,” she added.
Both families assured the officials of their cooperation and agreed to postpone the marriages until the children reach the legal age. Awareness sessions were also conducted in the respective villages, highlighting the role of communities in preventing such practices. Residents were informed about the Child Helpline number 1098, a 24/7 service for reporting incidents involving children in distress.
Dr. Baljit Kaur urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of child marriage immediately to the Child Helpline (1098) or the nearest police station. “Every voice matters. If you speak up, you can help save a child’s future. The identity of the informant will be kept strictly confidential,” she assured.
She concluded by reiterating that child marriage is not just a violation of the law, but a violation of a child’s right to health, education, and dignity. “Together, with public participation and institutional commitment, we can build a Punjab where every child can dream freely and grow with safety, education, and opportunity.”
