Punjab Making Strides Towards a Child Marriage-Free State; 58 Cases Prevented in 15 Months: Dr. Baljit Kaur
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, June 30, 2025 – Punjab is steadily progressing towards becoming a child marriage-free state, with 58 cases successfully averted over the past 15 months, according to Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur. The Minister credited the sustained efforts of the state government under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann for this significant achievement.
Dr. Kaur revealed that 42 child marriages were prevented between January and December 2024, and 16 more between January and March 2025, owing to prompt action by officials and increased community awareness. She described the results as a reflection of the Punjab Government’s strong commitment to safeguarding children’s rights and ensuring their healthy, protected future.
“Child marriage is a deeply harmful practice, and we are implementing stringent measures to eradicate it from our society,” said the Minister.
? Helpline and Reporting Mechanism
The Minister highlighted that Child Helpline 1098 operates 24/7 across Punjab, allowing citizens to confidentially report incidents of child marriage, abuse, or exploitation. In addition, residents can alert Senior Secondary School Principals or Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs)—who are also designated as Child Marriage Prohibition Officers (CMPOs)—to ensure swift action.
She assured that the identity of informants remains confidential, encouraging broader public participation in the initiative.
? Legal Action and Awareness Drives
Dr. Kaur warned that anyone found involved in conducting or supporting child marriages will face strict legal consequences. “Childhood is for learning and growing—not for marriage. Denying a child their right to education and development is an offense that will not be tolerated,” she asserted.
To further reinforce prevention, the government plans to roll out special awareness campaigns during peak marriage seasons, targeting both district and village levels. These efforts aim to enhance vigilance and community responsibility.
? Call for Public Support
Dr. Kaur appealed to teachers, ASHA workers, sarpanches, NGOs, and conscious citizens to join hands with the government in eradicating child marriage from Punjab. “Let us work together to create a safe, progressive, and just society for every child,” she said.
The state’s proactive stance and collaborative approach are setting a model for effective action against child marriage in India.