In the past year, Mysuru’s child protection teams have successfully intervened in 224 cases of child marriage, halting the illegal practice across the district. The most recent case occurred on April 30, involving a 17-year-old girl whose parents were planning to marry her off.
NT Yogesh, the District Child Protection Officer, shared that the incident came to light after a tip-off through the child helpline. Acting swiftly, a team comprising members of the Special Juvenile Police Unit, an NGO, and Child Welfare officials reached the girl’s residence and stopped the wedding. The parents provided a written assurance not to continue with the marriage, and the girl was subsequently shifted to a protective shelter.
Despite growing awareness, many families still secretly arrange underage marriages, Yogesh said. Initially held at homes or temples, such weddings are now conducted discreetly in hidden venues to avoid legal repercussions.
Since April 2024, the department has not only prevented child marriages but also filed legal cases against the parents, grooms, and relatives involved, under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act. Though all accused are currently out on bail, they had been placed in judicial custody following arrest.
Yogesh added that tribal communities are particularly vulnerable, and hence the department is focusing on educational outreach to raise awareness about the consequences of violating child marriage laws. The Child Protection Unit continues its mission to safeguard children’s rights through vigilant action and public engagement.
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