Birbhum: In a daring crackdown, authorities at the Shantiniketan Poush Mela, a iconic fair in West Bengal, foiled a child marriage on Thursday, sending shockwaves through the community.
The dramatic turn of events unfolded when a newlywed couple from Arambagh, unaware of the impending storm, visited the fair. Officials from the Child Protection Commission, stationed at the fair’s child-friendly corner, swooped in after noticing the bride’s tender age.
A quick investigation revealed the horrifying truth: the bride was a mere 14 years old. The authorities sprang into action, filing a case at the Shantiniketan police station and taking the groom into custody. The minor bride was whisked away to a shelter home, safe from harm.
“We had deployed officials at the fair to prevent child marriages, and our efforts paid off,” said a district administration official, beaming with pride. “We will continue to work tirelessly to prevent such illegal unions.”
As the news spread like wildfire, the community expressed a mix of shock, relief, and gratitude towards the authorities. The groom’s desperate attempts to plead for release fell on deaf ears, as the authorities stood firm in their commitment to protecting vulnerable minors.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent menace of child marriage in rural India, and the need for continued vigilance and action to prevent such atrocities.
