Marriage, Rosogolla, and Arrest – Even Dinner Guests Now Under the Law for Child Marriage
The minor's wedding took place about two months ago. No one protested; instead, they attended the reception and returned home smiling. But that past presence has now become a legal liability. In Jagacha, Howrah, police have arrested a total of 18 people, including a neighbor who attended the 14-year-old girl's wedding and the priest. Ironically, this neighbor later called the police station to protest the domestic violence that occurred after the wedding. Yet, the administration did not spare him either for being present at the wedding ceremony. This paragraph highlights the central drama and social message of the incident.
Girl Returns from In-Laws' House After Torture; Neighbor Gets Entangled Trying to Help
Domestic violence – both mental and physical – began after the wedding. Unable to bear it any longer, the young girl secretly fled back to her village on February 26th. She feared her family would force her to return to the same place. So, she took shelter at the home of a confident neighbor. From there, the story of the abuse she endured came to light. The neighbor responsibly informed the police station. The police took the complaint of domestic violence, and then an even more serious fact came to light - the girl was not yet eighteen. This section highlights the girl's courage and the neighbor's humanitarian action, which ultimately led to a complex legal path.
Not Just the Bride and Groom, Every Guest at the Wedding Celebration Is Now Under the Law
Police investigation revealed that the wedding took place with a thirty-year-old man from Kultali, which was forcibly organized by the initiative of both families. The ceremony was held in a grand manner. But now the priest, relatives, and even some local residents who were present at the ceremony have been arrested. The law states that failing to prevent a minor's marriage means you have accepted it – meaning you have broken the law. And this is what the Howrah police have sternly proven. This section explains the exemplary steps taken according to the law, which is a lesson for the future.
‘Guilty Even for Eating Rosogolla!’ – Lawyers' Warning
Even as bail is being granted step by step from the Howrah court, lawyer Mrityunjay Chattopadhyay is sending a clear message. In his words, "Being present at a minor's wedding means you have violated the law." According to the Child Marriage Restraint Act, if proven, imprisonment for up to 2 years or a fine of up to one lakh rupees may be imposed. If someone makes the excuse – "I just went to eat" – that is not acceptable in law. To send a message to society, the administration is no longer looking at such presence with sympathy. This section highlights the strict outline of the law and personal responsibility.
The Girl Is Now Sheltered in a Home; Other Accused Gradually Released on Bail
Currently, the girl's address is a government home in Howrah. The girl is being provided with security and counseling. Meanwhile, her husband, parents, relatives, and neighbors have also received bail. On Friday, the High Court granted bail to the husband; Justice Bibhas Pattnayak granted his application. But the law is now clear – not only being present at the time of the wedding, but also being part of the wedding plan, accepting it, and enjoying it are all considered legal offenses. In conclusion, the outcome of the event and the direction of future social reflection are highlighted.
