Chitradurga: A determined 13-year-old girl from Chitradurga district took a bold stand to prevent her own early marriage, which had been arranged by her parents and relatives. The Class 8 student, who is enthusiastic about school and sports, resisted the attempt despite physical pressure from several family members.

C Savitha, District Child Protection Officer, said the incident came to light after a video of the girl appealing to her family went viral on social media on June 4. The marriage was arranged with her maternal uncle, and though the girl was initially unaware, she firmly opposed it upon finding out.

Despite her protests, the family went ahead with preparations. As some relatives tried to proceed with the ceremony, the girl managed to break free and run outside to seek help. Local residents recorded the scene and alerted the police in Challakere.

A team from the police and Child Welfare Committee arrived promptly and safely rescued the child. She is now at Bala Mandir, a children’s care centre, where she is receiving support. Officials stated that she will either return home if she feels safe or continue her education while staying at the centre.

No formal case was registered as the marriage was stopped in time. Her parents were cautioned and allowed to return. The district has received 201 child marriage-related complaints from April 2024 to April 2025, with authorities successfully intervening in 88 cases and filing cases in 83.