Manipur Reports 100 Child Marriage Cases, Thoubal Leads with 49

IMPHAL-  Manipur has reported approximately 100 cases of child marriage, with Thoubal district having the highest number at 49, according to Reena Chanu Moirangthem, Legal Cum Probation Officer, Imphal East.

She revealed this alarming statistic during an Orientation and Sensitization Programme for Child Marriage Prohibition Officers organized by the Social Welfare Department at Sangai Hall, Hotel Imphal, on Thursday.

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Moirangthem highlighted that while child marriage is not part of Manipur’s traditional practices, its increasing prevalence in the state is concerning. She pointed out the significant difference between Manipur and other parts of India, where child marriage is more common.

The Legal Cum Probation Officer went on to elaborate on the grave consequences of child marriage, which she categorized into several areas:

• Evil Consequences: Violation of children’s rights and disruption of their future.
• Social Consequences: Gender inequality, lack of education, and economic dependency.
• Health Consequences: Increased risks of maternal and infant health issues due to early pregnancies.
• Legal Consequences: Violation of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, which leads to legal actions.

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Although many child marriage cases have been reported, the number of legal cases filed remains around 100. Thoubal district tops the list with 49 cases, followed by Imphal West, Imphal East, and Bishnupur. Notably, no cases of child marriage have been reported in the hill districts.

The event underscored the need for more robust awareness campaigns to educate the public about the harmful effects of child marriage and the importance of enforcing laws that prohibit the practice. Authorities continue to emphasize the urgency of tackling this issue to protect children’s rights and ensure their well-being.