Marriage, Rasgulla, and Arrest – Guests Attending Child Marriages Now Under Legal Scrutiny
The minor's wedding took place nearly two months ago. No one protested; instead, they attended the reception and returned home smiling. But that past attendance has now become a legal liability. In Jagatcha, Howrah, police have arrested a total of 18 people, including a neighbor and a priest, for attending the wedding of a 14-year-old girl. 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 for being present at the wedding ceremony. This section highlights the central drama of the event and its social message.
Girl Returns from In-Laws' House After Torture; Neighbor Entangled in Attempting to Help
Domestic violence – both mental and physical – began after the marriage. Unable to endure it any longer, the young woman secretly fled back to her village on February 26th. She feared that her family would force her to return to the same place. Therefore, she took refuge in the house of a trusted neighbor. From there, the story of her abuse came to light. The neighbor responsibly informed the police station. The police took a complaint of domestic violence, and then an even more serious fact emerged – the girl was not yet eighteen years old. This section highlights the girl's courage and the neighbor's humanitarian action, which ultimately paved the way for a complex legal path.
Not Only the Bride and Groom, But Every Guest Present at the Wedding Ceremony is Now Under Legal Scrutiny
Police investigation revealed that the marriage was forcibly arranged to a thirty-year-old man from Kultali, at the initiative of both families. The ceremony was organized in a grand manner. But now the priest, relatives, and even some local residents present at the ceremony have been arrested. The law states that failing to prevent the marriage of a minor means that you have accepted it – which means that you have broken the law. And this is what the Howrah Police has firmly demonstrated. This section explains the exemplary steps taken according to the law, which is a lesson for the future.
'Guilty Even for Eating Rasgulla!' – Lawyers' Warning
Bail is being granted step by step from the Howrah court, yet lawyer Mrityunjay Chattopadhyay is sending a clear message. In his words, "Being present at the marriage of a minor means that you have violated the law." According to the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, if proven, imprisonment of up to 2 years or a fine of up to one lakh rupees can be imposed. If someone makes the excuse – "I just went to eat" – it is not acceptable in law. To send a message to society, the administration is now not viewing such attendance sympathetically. This section highlights the strict framework of law and individual responsibility.
The Girl is Now Safe in a Shelter Home; Other Accused Gradually Released on Bail
Currently, the girl's whereabouts are 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 Vibhas Patnaik accepted his application. But now the law is clear – not only being present at the time of the marriage, but being a part of the marriage plan, accepting it, and enjoying it is also considered a legal offense. In conclusion, the consequences of the event and the direction of future social reflection are highlighted.
