Dharmanagar: Jan 13. The Dharmanagar Sub-Divisional Administration, with support from Child Helpline, stopped the marriage of a minor girl below 18 years in Purba Phulbari village under Churaibari police station. The Class XI student, aged about 17 years and six months, was allegedly being prepared for marriage.
According to officials, Child Helpline received a phone call alerting them about the proposed marriage of the minor daughter of one Nizam Uddin, a resident of Ward No. 5 of Purba Phulbari Gram Panchayat. Taking the information seriously, Child Helpline immediately informed the Dharmanagar Sub-Divisional Administration.
Acting promptly, a joint team was formed under the leadership of Deputy Collector and Magistrate Tanujit Saha. The team included Child Helpline counsellor Rituparna Dhar, District Supervisor Pittiraj Chand, Child Law case worker Asim De, and personnel from Churaibari police station. A woman sub-inspector and TSR jawans also took part in the operation.
The team conducted a raid at the residence of the girl in Ward No. 5. Although the parents were not present at the time, officials interacted with the minor and other family members and verified the information. After detailed discussions, the family unanimously agreed that the girl would not be married before attaining 18 years of age.
Following this, the family submitted a written undertaking to the Dharmanagar Sub-Divisional Administration and Child Helpline, assuring full compliance with child protection laws.
The timely action by the administration has drawn appreciation from local residents. Conscious citizens believe such coordinated efforts by the administration and Child Helpline play a crucial role in preventing child marriage and spreading social awareness.
