Rewari administration on alert to prevent child marriages on Devuthani Gyaras

To prevent possible incidents of child marriage on the occasion of Devuthani Gyaras (Ekadashi) on November 2, the district administration has issued strict directions to officials and field workers to remain vigilant. Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Meena has instructed anganwadi workers, supervisers, sarpanches, and health staff to keep a close watch on weddings scheduled in their respective areas and immediately report any suspected cases involving minors. The DC appealed to the public to inform the authorities if they came across any such incident. “If anyone receives information regarding the marriage of a girl below 18 years or a boy below 21 years, they should immediately contact the Child Marriage Prohibition Officer, Police Helpline (112), Magistrate, or Child Helpline (1098) so that timely action can be taken to stop the marriage,” he added.

Highlighting that the practice of child marriage tends to surface during ‘Devuthani Gyaras’, the DC reminded that such acts were punishable under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006. “Child marriage is a cognizable and non-bailable offence. Anyone who organises, promotes, or assists in such a marriage can face imprisonment of up to two years and a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh,” Meena added.

The Deputy Commissioner asked all sarpanches to monitor upcoming weddings in their villages. Anganwadi supervisers and workers have been directed to prepare lists of marriages scheduled locally, while the school authorities have been asked to verify reasons for any student dropouts.

Further, ASHAs and ANMs have been instructed to promptly report any child marriage cases to the departments concerned, including the Child Protection Unit and the police. The DC has also asked representatives of the District Legal Services Authority, Skill Development Department, ITIs, and the Child Welfare Committee to inform the district administration of any related information.

Urging cooperation from service providers, Meena appealed to tent house operators, caterers, priests, printing press owners, and others not to participate in or provide services for child marriages. “Legal action will be taken against anyone found aiding such unlawful events,” he warned.