Shillong, Feb 17: The District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) of East Jaintia Hills conducted a legal literacy programme-cum-street play at Lumshnong and Wahiajer villages to raise awareness surrounding the prevention of child marriage.
The event was part of the ‘100 Days Intensive Awareness Campaign for a Child-Marriage Free Bharat’.
Through street plays, the programme conveyed crucial messages on the harmful effects of child marriage, particularly on young girls.
Chief Legal Aid Defence Counsel R Manar spoke of legal consequences of child marriage, including provisions of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2006 and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act 2012.
The street play depicted a case where a priest unknowingly solemnized a marriage involving a minor, leading to police intervention and arrests.
Manar stressed that anyone facilitating child marriage faces legal action and urged collective responsibility to eradicate the practice.
Participants were encouraged to report incidents using Child Helpline 1098 and toll-free number 15100, with DLSA offering free legal aid and counseling services.
