Punjab Bans Marriage of Boys Under 21: Strict New Order Issued

Patiala (The Uttam Hindu): Swift action by authorities in Patiala prevented a case of child marriage following a secret complaint received by the office of the Child Development and Project Officer (CDPO), Pradeep Singh Gill. The complaint alleged that preparations were underway for the marriage of a minor boy in Guru Teg Bahadur Colony.

Responding promptly, officials from the Police Station Civil Line and Police Chowki Officer Colony reached the location and initiated an investigation. During the inquiry, it was confirmed that the boy was under 21 years of age—the legal minimum age for marriage for boys in India.

Authorities then educated the family on the provisions and consequences outlined in the Child Marriage Prevention Act, 2006. After understanding the legal implications, the family gave an assurance in writing that they would not proceed with the marriage until the boy turned 21. CDPO Pradeep Singh Gill urged citizens to report any suspected child marriage incidents by calling the Child Helpline at 1098 or by contacting the local CDPO office. The team involved in the intervention included Supervisor Anju Bala, Gurdalvir Singh, Chowki Incharge Jaswinder Singh, Sukhdev Singh, and Labh Singh.