District steps up vigil to prevent child marriages ahead of Akshaya Tritiya

Koppal: Ahead of the Akshaya Tritiya wedding season, the district administration has stepped up vigilance to curb child marriages, with deputy commissioner Suresh B Itnal directing officials to enforce strict preventive measures.The directive comes in the wake of the upcoming Akshaya Tritiya festival on April 20, a day traditionally associated with a large number of mass and individual weddings. Authorities have been asked to remain alert and ensure compliance with the law.Citing provisions of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, and the Karnataka Amendment Act, 2016, Itnal said the DC is empowered to function as the child marriage prohibition officer and has the authority to take necessary steps, including minimal force if required, to prevent such marriages.Despite ongoing awareness drives and coordinated action by multiple departments, instances of child marriage continue to be reported in some pockets, officials said.The administration has now mandated close monitoring at district, taluk and gram panchayat levels, with officials instructed to supervise all upcoming weddings. Awareness campaigns targeting organisers and the public have also been intensified, and a report on preventive measures has been sought by the District Child Protection Unit. Officials reiterated their commitment to making Koppal a child marriage-free district through sustained enforcement and outreach.