Shillong, Jan 20: A legal literacy programme-cum-street play was held at two different locations in East Jaintia Hills District aimed at creating awareness on the prevention of child marriage.
Organised by the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) in collaboration with the ASHA (Awareness, Support, Help & Action) Unit the programme was conducted under the NALSAS ASHA SOP and Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat Campaign at Ladrymbai and Sookilo markets.
Through street plays (Nukkad Nataks), key messages were conveyed on the harmful, physical, social and educational consequences of child marriage, especially on young girls.
The campaign forms part of Phase-II activities under the 100 Days District-wise Action Plan for Prevention of Child Marriages in Meghalaya, being observed from January 5 to February4, 2026. The public was also informed about the use of Helpline Numbers 1098 and 15100, along with the Bal Vivah Mukt Portal for reporting cases of Child Marriage.
Additional Public Prosecutor M. War, Chief Legal Aid Defence Counsel, R. Manar, Deputy Chief Legal Aid Defence Counsel, R. Lyngdoh, Deputy Chief Legal Aid Defence Counsel, K. Challam along with other Panel Lawyers and staff members of the DLSA.
War explained the provisions of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, stating that any person below the age of 18 is considered a minor under the law. Through the skit, it was highlighted on how Child Marriage often occurs due to misunderstanding or ignorance of the law.
The Street Play depicted a case where a priest unknowingly solemnized the marriage of a 20-year-old boy with a girl of 16 years of age. After the girl became pregnant at the age of 16 and visited a hospital for a medical check-up, the doctor was legally bound to inform the police. Subsequently, the police intervened, arresting both the husband and the priest for violating the law.
War stressed that anyone who encourages or facilitates Child Marriage will face legal consequences, including action under the POCSO Act in cases involving minors. She added that Child Marriage severely affects a girl’s education, health and future and called for collective responsibility to eradicate the practice.
