 Early Times Report
KISHTWAR, Dec 31: An awareness programme on "Child Marriage Mukt Bharat" was organised in Kishtwar to sensitise people about the harmful effects, implications, and legal consequences of child marriage. The programme was organised by Mission Vatsalya, Kishtwar, under the guidance of District Child Protection Officer, Sh. Tariq Parvaiz Qazi (JKAS) as part of the nationwide initiative to eradicate child marriage and ensure a safe, healthy, and dignified childhood for every child. The event was held at the New Modern Institute of Paramedical & Nursing Sciences. During the programme, Protection Officer (IC), DCPU Kishtwar, Deepika Bhandari, highlighted the serious demerits of child marriage. She said that child marriage adversely affects the physical, mental, emotional, and social development of children, especially girls. Early marriage often leads to school dropouts, early pregnancies, health complications, and limited opportunities for education and self-reliance.
She further explained the implications and ill effects of child marriage, stating that it increases the risk of domestic violence, exploitation, and poverty. Children married at a young age are often deprived of their basic rights and decision-making power and may suffer long-term psychological stress. The practice also impacts society by perpetuating gender inequality, poor health indicators, and inter-generational cycles of illiteracy and deprivation.
Participants were also informed about the legal provisions and reporting mechanisms related to child marriage. It was emphasised that any incident of child marriage can be reported by calling the Child Helpline number 1098, which operates round-the-clock to ensure immediate response and protection for children in distress. Speaking on the occasion, Administrator of the Institute, N.L. Parihar Nirala, termed child marriage a social evil and appreciated the initiative taken by the department. He stressed the importance of collective efforts by parents, educational institutions, and society to safeguard child rights.
A pledge against child marriage was administered by Social Worker, DCPU Kishtwar, Meenakshi Sharma, wherein participants pledged to oppose child marriage, remain vigilant, report violations, and work towards making Kishtwar a Child Marriage-Free district. |
