Child marriage is a scourge which not only robs a child of childhood by violating his or her rights but also compounds the risk of violence.

Recently, Bachpan Bachao Andolan’s intervention in a case of child marriage at Unnao in Uttar Pradesh translated to FIR against 19 accused involved in organizing the marriage. The bride in this case was a little over 13 years old.

A written complaint by BBA’s state coordinator in Lucknow on June 23, 2021, to the District Child Protection Officer translated into strict legal action against offenders. A copy of the complaint was also sent to District Magistrate, Lucknow.

On BBA’s appeal, Uttar Pradesh State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCR) took cognizance of the case and issued notice to DM Lucknow and DM Unnao to stop the child marriage and take strict legal action against those involved.

Families of both the minor girl and the boy were counselled against holding the marriage on June 26 but even then they went ahead with the marriage at a local temple on June 27. Documents revealed that the girl’s age was only 13 years 4 months and 26 days old.

FIR was subsequently registered against 19 people including the girl’s mother and close relatives of the groom who were involved in commencing child marriage.