In a series of timely interventions, VEDIC Society’s Child Social Workers (CSWs) have successfully prevented multiple child marriages across Latehar district, Jharkhand, demonstrating the power of community vigilance and coordinated action.
The first case emerged from Semri village in Manika block, where 17-year-old Sanju Kumari was to be married to 18-year-old Magaldeo Ram. Upon receiving the alert, the organisation’s coordinator informed local authorities and verified the couple’s ages. Despite initial delays due to election duties, a formal complaint was submitted to the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), which issued a letter to stop the marriage. After counselling both families and warning of legal consequences, they agreed to sign a pledge, preventing the marriage.
Soon after, in Ahirpuruwa village of Barwadih block, CSW received information about 16-year-old Geeta Kumari, a Class 10 student, whose father had fixed her marriage. The CSW and anganwadi worker visited the family and explained the risks and legal implications. Initially resistant, the father eventually agreed not to proceed and signed a written pledge.
In Hethpochra village, a marriage between two minors—Saudagar Kumar and Sukanti Kumari—was scheduled for 5 May 2024. The CSW verified the boy’s age through school records and informed the Block Development Officer and CWC Chairperson. Both families were summoned to the CWC and, on 26 April, submitted affidavits before a notary public pledging not to marry.
A more serious case was reported from Khera village, where a 12-year-old girl Rita Kumari, was found living with a 22-year-old man Radhe Kumar (name changed). They planned to marry that day. The coordinator alerted the CWC, which formed a rescue team. Upon investigation, it was found that the girl was pregnant due to an illegal relationship. A case was filed under the POCSO Act, the boy was sent to jail, and the girl was placed in a shelter home.
Another case surfaced in Pokhrikhurd village, where a marriage between Deepak Kumar Singh and Phool Kumari, both minors, was scheduled for 12 July 2024. After verifying their ages, the CSW informed the BDO and met the families. Initially reluctant due to wedding preparations, they were counselled and warned of legal action. On 4 July, both families submitted written affidavits to the CWC, pledging not to proceed.
These cases reflect growing awareness and community participation in preventing child marriage. VEDIC Society’s efforts, in collaboration with anganwadi workers, panchayat officials, schools, and the Child Welfare Committee, continue to protect children’s rights and promote safer futures.
(Names have been changed to protect identities of people involved.)