A shocking case of child marriage in a UP village surfaced in Basti district, Uttar Pradesh. Police acted three days after a 21-year-old man married a minor girl in a local temple. Authorities booked the groom, his parents, the bride’s parents, and the temple priest for their involvement in the illegal ceremony.
Police Action in Basti District
Police detained the groom for questioning after receiving information about the unlawful wedding. Officers confirmed that the families knowingly arranged the marriage despite the girl being underage. Officials also said the temple priest conducted the rituals even after learning that the bride did not meet the legal age requirement. The police registered charges against all parties to send a strong message that the state will not tolerate child marriages.
Law and Social Responsibility
Indian law clearly prohibits child marriage, setting the minimum legal age for women at 18 years and for men at 21 years. In this case, the groom crossed the legal age limit, but the bride remained a minor. By performing the rituals, the temple priest supported an act that endangered the girl’s rights and future. Police emphasized that community leaders and religious figures must act responsibly and uphold the law rather than participate in practices that exploit minors.
Government Focus on Child Protection
Officials in Uttar Pradesh have repeatedly stressed the importance of strict enforcement against child marriage. Authorities consider such cases not only a violation of law but also a threat to the health, safety, and education of young girls. Police in Basti assured locals that they will monitor rural areas more closely to prevent similar incidents.
The child marriage in a UP village highlights the continuing struggle against outdated practices in some rural communities. With strict legal action against the groom, both families, and the temple priest, authorities aim to deter others from attempting such illegal marriages. The case serves as a reminder that child protection must remain a priority, and the community must work together to end underage marriages.
