26-OLD-WOMAN MARRIES 17-YEARS OLD MINOR

A shocking and disturbing incident has come to light from the Khammam district of Telangana, where a 26-year-old woman reportedly trapped and married a 17-year-old minor boy. The incident has shocked the local community and led to a POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) case being filed against the woman.
Background of the Case

According to police reports and local sources, the woman involved was previously married but later divorced her husband. After her separation, she became close to a 17-year-old boy who lived in the same area. Over time, she allegedly developed feelings for the minor and started influencing him emotionally. Reports suggest that she gained his trust and slowly drew him away from his family and social circle.

How the Incident Unfolded

The woman, who is considerably older than the boy, allegedly manipulated and lured him into a romantic relationship. Despite knowing that the boy was a minor and not legally allowed to marry, she took him to a temple and married him in a secret ceremony. The entire event was kept hidden from the boy’s parents and relatives.

To avoid being tracked or caught, the woman reportedly shifted their settlement to a remote area in Andhra Pradesh, far from their original location in Telangana. This move made it even harder for the boy’s parents and the authorities to locate them. They lived in secrecy for several days before the incident came to light.
Parents File Complaint

When the boy went missing, his worried parents searched for him and eventually approached the police at Sathupalli Police Station in Khammam district. They provided all details and suspected that the woman was behind their son’s disappearance. Based on their complaint, the police started an investigation.

After a few days of searching and gathering information, the police traced the boy and the woman to their secret hideout in Andhra Pradesh. The officers rescued the boy and arrested the woman on the spot.

Legal Action Taken

The woman has been booked under the POCSO Act, which is a special law in India to protect children from sexual offences and exploitation. Since the boy is just 17 years old and still a minor as per Indian law, any relationship or marriage involving him is considered illegal and punishable.

After her arrest, the woman was brought back to Telangana and produced before the court. The court reviewed the case and ordered that she be sent to judicial custody (remand) while the investigation continues.

Social Reaction and Community Shock

The incident has created a wave of shock and concern in both the Khammam and nearby districts. People are stunned that such a relationship not only developed but also led to marriage and elopement. Many are questioning how the woman could take such a step knowing the legal consequences and the age difference.

Community leaders and child rights activists have raised their voices, asking for strict punishment and more awareness about child protection laws. They emphasized that the emotional and psychological impact on the minor boy could be long-lasting.

What the Law Says

In India, the legal age for marriage is 18 for girls and 21 for boys. Any marriage involving a boy under 21 is not just illegal but also considered a form of child abuse if the adult involved is significantly older. Under the POCSO Act, any form of romantic or physical involvement with a minor is punishable by law.

The police have assured that the case will be investigated thoroughly and justice will be delivered. They also encouraged parents to be vigilant and aware of their children’s interactions, especially with adults.