Call for Justice & Awareness

A Heart-Wrenching Case of Child Marriage and Domestic Violence

In the village of Sonai, a family faced severe financial hardships due to lack of proper employment opportunities. Four years ago, they moved from Sonai to Mukund Nagar in Ahilya Nagar (formerly Ahmednagar) in search of a better life. The family’s circumstances were challenging—the father was chronically ill, and the mother had to juggle household chores, cooking and caring for her children. Amid these struggles, their daughter, just 14 years old, was sent to a Muslim madrasa to learn about religious teachings.

During her time at the madrasa, the girl made new friends. After classes, she would often visit her friend Megha’s house, and Megha would visit her in return. Their friendship grew close, and over time, they started talking more openly. Eventually, Megha’s brother was introduced into their circle, and through casual conversations, a romantic relationship developed between the girl and Megha’s brother.

Unaware of the developing relationship, the girl’s parents were initially oblivious. However, they soon became suspicious and they began to repeatedly question her, but she refused to admit the truth. Ultimately, the girl ran away from home with Megha’s brother. The parents, frantic and worried, searched for her but couldn’t find her.

When the girl and Megha’s brother returned to his home, fearing legal and social repercussions, the family falsely claimed that the girl was their own daughter and fearing she may be pregnant forced her to take medication to induce a miscarriage, claiming it was for her health. They also disguised their relationship, and the girl was sent back to her parents' house.

Despite the deception, the girl’s love for Megha’s brother persisted. The couple planned to marry, and a formal engagement (sakhrapuda) was arranged. However, the marriage was never made official. The girl was kept under pressure and was continuously manipulated with her 'husband's' parents demanding money—two lakh rupees—and verbally abusing her and her family.

Two years passed, and the girl, feeling trapped and angry, contemplated ending her life. Finally, her own parents learned of her plight and contacted our free helpline—which aims to protect vulnerable girls and women. With our support, the girl was rescued and her case was brought to the attention of authorities.

We scrutinized her legal documents and provided legal advice and the girl expressed her wish to file a formal complaint. Under the guidance of our counselors, her case was documented and with detailed investigations and legal procedures before being referred to Bhingar Camp Police Station for further action. The girl and her mother provided statements and with the support of our dedicated team she is now actively pursuing justice and ensuring her voice is heard.

This heartbreaking story sheds light on the dark realities of child marriage, forced relationships, and domestic abuse prevalent in many parts of rural India. It underscores the importance of community awareness, timely intervention and strong legal action to protect vulnerable girls from exploitation.

If you suspect child abuse or forced marriage in your community, do not hesitate to seek help. Our confidential helpline is committed to safeguarding children's rights and ensuring justice. Every child deserves a safe and loving environment to grow and thrive.

Let’s stand together against child exploitation and work toward a society where every girl’s rights are protected and respected.