Mandya District Sees Rise in Child Marriages: DC Expresses Concern

BM TEAM

Mandya, July 13, 2025 : Deputy Commissioner Dr. Kumara has raised alarm over the growing number of child marriages in Mandya, a district otherwise known for its social, educational, and economic progress. Speaking at a review meeting, he described the trend as highly concerning.

According to official data, during the 2024-25 fiscal year, a total of 186 child marriages were registered in Mandya. Of these, 129 were averted, but 57 were solemnised, resulting in First Information Reports (FIRs) being filed. Over the last five years, Mandya has witnessed 729 child marriage cases, among which 431 were prevented, but 298 ended with marriages.

Dr. Kumara criticised local officials including anganwadi and ASHA workers, panchayat development officers, and school principals for insufficient monitoring. He emphasized that sudden or prolonged absenteeism of high school girls should be treated as a warning sign  . “It is hard to believe that these officials are unaware of weddings happening in their villages”, he remarked.

Despite an annual child welfare budget of 2.3 lakh, the district ranks sixth highest in Karnataka for child marriage incidence —a fact that points to systemic lapses in intervention.

Measures Announced

Dr. Kumara outlined a multi-pronged strategy to curb this trend:

— Issuing notices to officials found negligent in preventing child marriages .

— Coordinated monitoring by Child Development Project Officers and education officials to track school attendance and intervene early.

— Enhanced community engagement: urging anganwadi workers to identify vulnerable families and conduct sensitisation sessions in village meetings.

— Commissioning a social study of child marriages over five years to better understand root causes  .

Upcoming Awareness Rally

In alignment with preventive efforts, a large-scale Public Awareness Rally has been scheduled for July 19. Organized by the District Administration, the rally will kick off at 8 am. from the DC office, proceeding to the District Sports Ground. Participation will include college students, anganwadi and ASHA workers, and all district staff, whose attendance is compulsory .

Deputy Commissioner Kumara highlighted the need for proactive vigilance at the grassroots and emphasized that prevention must precede enforcement. The District Legal Services Authority has warned that individuals who promote or facilitate child marriages could face legal action .