Assam’s recent initiative against child marriage has led to the arrest of over 500 individuals, marking a notable rise compared to the previous year. Authorities have reported 476 cases and 557 arrests as part of the ongoing efforts to combat this social issue. These statistics indicate an increase of 113 cases and 125 arrests from the 2024 operation, which recorded 363 cases and 432 arrests.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced these figures, highlighting the state’s commitment to tackling child marriage. The current crackdown has exceeded last year’s numbers, illustrating the government’s intensified approach to this persistent problem. The Chief Minister has emphasised that the campaign will not cease until child marriage is completely eradicated from Assam.

In a statement on social media, Sarma mentioned that the state’s police force has made significant progress in apprehending those involved in child marriage. He reiterated the government’s determination to eliminate this practice, stating that the crackdown is an annual initiative aimed at protecting the rights and futures of young girls.

Ongoing Campaign and Government Commitment

The government has accelerated its campaign against child marriage since 2023, implementing a large-scale operation that has seen police actively registering cases and making arrests throughout Assam. Earlier reports indicated that more than 12,000 cases and over 11,000 arrests had been documented as part of the broader initiative.

During a media briefing, Sarma confirmed that the crackdown is ongoing and that the government remains resolute in its efforts. He stated, “More than 500 people have been arrested so far, and additional arrests are still anticipated.” This ongoing commitment reflects the government’s aim to eradicate child marriage and safeguard the future of its youth.

In addition to the arrests, the government has reported a decline in child marriage incidents in areas assessed during the campaign. According to one evaluation, cases of child marriage decreased by 81 per cent in 1,132 villages across 20 districts between the years 2021-22 and 2023-24. This decline is viewed as a positive outcome of the government’s sustained efforts.

Future Actions and Community Impact

Looking ahead, the Assam government plans to maintain its focus on eradicating child marriage. Sarma has expressed that the police will continue their operations, reinforcing the government’s commitment to this cause. The Chief Minister’s statements reflect a broader societal goal of ensuring that young girls are not subjected to early marriages, which can hinder their education and personal development.

The community’s involvement is also crucial in this fight against child marriage. The government has called for increased awareness and engagement from local populations to support the initiative. By fostering a collaborative environment, authorities aim to create a culture that protects the rights of children and discourages harmful practices.

As the campaign progresses, the government will likely continue to monitor the situation closely, adapting strategies as necessary to ensure that the fight against child marriage remains effective. With the current momentum, Assam’s leadership hopes to see further reductions in child marriage cases, contributing to a safer and more equitable society for all children.

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