Punjab Advances Toward Child Marriage-Free Status: 58 Cases Prevented, Says Dr. Baljit Kaur
Chandigarh, June 30
Under Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann’s leadership, the Punjab Government is making significant strides in its mission to eliminate child marriage, with 58 cases successfully prevented over the past 15 months. Social Security, Women, and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur highlighted the success of sustained awareness campaigns and proactive interventions in curbing this social evil.
Key Achievements
- Cases Prevented:
- 2024: 42 child marriages stopped from January to December.
- 2025: 16 additional cases prevented between January and March.
- Total: 58 child marriages averted in 15 months.
- Approach: The government’s efforts include village-level awareness drives and active intervention by state action teams, which have proven effective in identifying and halting child marriages.
Government’s Commitment
Dr. Baljit Kaur emphasized that these achievements reflect the Punjab Government’s unwavering dedication to protecting children’s rights and securing their future. “Child marriage is a grave social malpractice that undermines a child’s potential. We are committed to eradicating this practice through stringent measures,” she stated.
watch……After Small Fish, Now It’s the Turn of Drug Trade ‘Generals’: CM Mann
Mechanisms for Prevention
- Child Helpline (1098): A 24/7 helpline allows citizens to report child marriage, abuse, or exploitation anonymously, ensuring confidentiality to encourage community participation.
- Child Marriage Prohibition Officers (CMPOs): Principals of Senior Secondary Government Schools and Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs) are designated as CMPOs to take swift action upon receiving reports.
- Legal Action: Parents or individuals facilitating child marriage face strict legal consequences under the law, reinforcing the government’s zero-tolerance stance.
Awareness Campaigns
To curb child marriages during peak marriage seasons, the government is launching targeted awareness campaigns at district and village levels. These initiatives aim to educate communities and prevent violations, ensuring a proactive approach to social reform.
Call to Action
Dr. Baljit Kaur urged teachers, ASHA workers, sarpanches, NGOs, and vigilant citizens to collaborate with the government in eliminating child marriage. “Childhood is for building a bright future, not for marriage. Let’s work together to create a progressive and safe Punjab for every child,” she appealed.
Vision for a Child Marriage-Free Punjab
The Punjab Government’s relentless efforts, combining enforcement, awareness, and community engagement, are paving the way for a child marriage-free state. By empowering citizens and strengthening institutional mechanisms, the state is fostering a safer and more equitable environment for its children.
