Determined to eliminate child marriage in the state by 2026: CM Himanta

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma informed the State Assembly today that the Government hoped that 90 percent of the accused in the child marriage cases would be convicted. He also said that the government would appoint special advocates to fight child marriage cases.

The Chief Minister said, “I bother the least as to who said what against me in connection with child marriage cases. I’m determined to eliminate child marriage in the state by 2026. What we are doing is as per the POSCO Act and the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006. We have framed 900 charge sheets so far in child marriage cases. I’m sure that around 90 percent of the accused will be convicted. We have a four-pronged strategy: arrests of the accused, a helpline for victims, an awareness campaign, and the rehabilitation of the victim girls. The state budget has an allocation of Rs 200 crore to fight child marriage cases. The feudal mindset of a section of people also encourages child marriage. Instead of favouring government action against child marriage, they try to defame the government. However, the Act makes it crystal clear that one who marries a girl below 16 years of age needs to be arrested. If a girl under 16 years of age gives birth to a baby, a 14-year jail term for the husband is certain. The birth of the baby proves the sexual harassment against her. I appeal to all not to do politics with child marriage. Our prime aim is to provide safeguards to the girls below 16 years of age.

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