Strict Measures Announced Across State to Prevent Child Marriages Ahead of Akshaya Tritiya

Mumbai, April 18: In view of the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, during which a large number of weddings are organised across the state, the administration has initiated strict measures to prevent child marriages. Minister of State for Women and Child Development Meghna Sakore-Bordikar has issued clear instructions to authorities at all levels to remain vigilant.

During a state-level video conference held through a televised system, the minister directed officials from the village to district level to take proactive steps to curb child marriages. She emphasized the need for coordinated action among various departments to ensure that no such incidents occur during the festive period.

All sarpanches, police patils, gram sevaks, and anganwadi workers across the state have been instructed to verify the age of both the bride and groom before any marriage takes place in their respective villages. Special focus has been placed on ceremonies scheduled on Akshaya Tritiya, a day traditionally considered highly auspicious for weddings.

The police department and local administration have been asked to work in close coordination to monitor wedding events and ensure compliance with the law. Special teams will be formed at the taluka and village levels to conduct on-ground inspections of temples, marriage halls, and other wedding venues. Authorities have been clearly directed to register cases immediately if any instance of child marriage is detected.

At the district level, meetings are being conducted under the leadership of District Collectors, involving officials from the revenue, police, and education departments. These meetings aim to prepare district-specific action plans to strengthen monitoring and enforcement. All tehsildars and block development officers have been instructed to actively participate in this campaign.

In addition, individuals and businesses associated with wedding services—including marriage hall operators, caterers, printing presses, photographers, band groups, and religious leaders—have been directed not to provide any services unless they verify the legal age of the bride and groom. Failure to comply will result in legal action against them as well.

To strengthen public awareness, the administration is launching extensive awareness campaigns across villages. These include public announcements, poster drives, special gram sabha meetings, parent meetings in schools, and outreach through women’s self-help groups.

Citizens have also been urged to report any information related to child marriages through Child Helpline 1098 or by dialing 112. Authorities have assured that the identity of informants will be kept confidential.

Minister Meghna Sakore-Bordikar called upon all sections of society to cooperate with the administration in this campaign, stressing that collective efforts are essential to eliminate the practice of child marriage and safeguard the rights and future of children across the state.