Lockdown effect: Number of marriages on Akshaya Tritiya takes a dip
Sunit Dhawan
Tribune News Service
Rohtak, April 25
The number of marriages usually solemnised on the occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, considered an auspicious day in the Hindu almanac, has taken a huge dip due the ongoing lockdown to battle Covid-19 pandemic.
A large number of marriage ceremonies are generally solemnised on Akshaya Tritiya, which this year falls on April 26.
Local hoteliers and banquet hall managers said most of the marriages scheduled for Akshaya Tritiya had been put off due to the lockdown.
The authorities concerned though believe that the possibility of arranging clandestine child marriages on this day can still not be ruled out.
Protection-cum-Child Marriage Prohibition Officer Karminder Kaur, therefore, appealed to the residents to be vigilant and report any child marriage(s) which comes to their notice.
“The residents can call me at 9466106100 or inform on women helpline numbers 181 or 1091. Child helpline number 1098 or police control room number 100,” said the officer.
Karminder also asked Station House Officers (SHOs) of all the police stations in the district to ensure no child marriage takes place in the areas under their respective jurisdiction.
“As per the provisions under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2006, marriage of a girl below 18 years of age and/or a boy less than 21 years of age is a cognisable and non-bailable offence,” pointed Karminder.
She said those who conduct, encourage or aid in solemnisation of child marriages might be punished with up to two-year imprisonment or fine of Rs 1 lakh.
