Authorities in Odisha’s Kendrapara have gone on high alert over increasing child marriages in Bengali-populated villages around Talchua Marine Police Station. Sparked by a Monday report on Rajnagar block, the district administration mobilized quickly with awareness programs and mass oath-taking ceremonies.
The consensual family-arranged unions in areas like Kerupal and Rangani have alarmed officials, who see them as a direct threat to child rights and development. Comprehensive campaigns reached out to minors, parents, sarpanchs, and frontline workers to dismantle deep-rooted customs.
Speaking exclusively, Child Development Project Officer Minati Mishra explained the rapid response. She alerted police upon hearing of the trend, investigated alongside them, and briefed superiors with a full dossier. This paved the way for village-level interventions.
Sessions delved into the multifaceted damages: interrupted schooling for girls, psychological trauma, health perils in adolescence, and legal penalties including fines and imprisonment. The events ended on a resolute note, with all present swearing to uphold laws against child marriage.
As Odisha pushes towards a child marriage-free state, such grassroots actions are vital. The administration’s firm stance signals zero tolerance, backed by plans for ongoing surveillance and community engagement to uproot the practice permanently.