CHILD MARRIAGE IN RANGAREDDY:40 YEARS OLD BOY,13 YEARS GIRL

A deeply disturbing incident has surfaced from Nandigama in the Rangareddy district of Telangana, where a 13-year-old girl was forcibly married off to a 40-year-old man by her own mother. The act, reportedly driven by severe financial hardship, has triggered shock and outrage across the region. However, what stood out in this tragic situation was the girl’s courage and determination to escape the forced marriage and pursue her dream of education.

According to local sources, the girl’s mother allegedly arranged the illegal marriage due to the family’s economic struggles. A middleman facilitated the deal, and a priest was scheduled to conduct the marriage rituals. The man, nearly three times the girl’s age, reportedly agreed to marry the minor in exchange for a monetary transaction. Preparations for the ceremony were underway when the girl took a bold step to stop it.

Realizing the injustice being done to her, the 13-year-old approached her school principal, seeking help. Her plea was met with immediate concern and action. The principal alerted the local police and child protection authorities, who responded without delay. Officers arrived at the location and intervened before the marriage could be solemnized.

The police have registered a case under the Child Marriage Restraint Act and various sections of the Indian Penal Code. The girl’s mother, the groom, the middleman, and the priest have all been booked for their roles in the illegal act. Authorities have emphasized that legal action will be pursued strictly to set an example and prevent similar cases in the future.

Following the incident, the minor girl was rescued and taken to a government-run shelter home, where she is currently receiving counseling and care. Officials confirmed that she is safe and will continue her education under state protection. The rescue home staff is also working with child welfare departments to secure her long-term wellbeing.

The incident has sparked strong reactions from local residents and child rights activists. Many praised the girl’s bravery and the quick response by school authorities and police. Others expressed concern over the persistent prevalence of child marriage, especially in rural and economically backward regions where poverty often drives families to take such extreme steps.

Child welfare organizations have stepped in to provide psychological and legal support to the girl. Activists stressed the need for broader community awareness and stronger enforcement of child protection laws. “This case is a reminder that our fight against child marriage is far from over,” said one local NGO worker. “Education, awareness, and community vigilance are crucial in preventing such tragedies.”

Meanwhile, the district administration has ordered an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the case. Officials plan to conduct awareness campaigns in nearby villages to educate families about the dangers and illegality of child marriage. Counseling sessions for parents and children are also being planned in schools to help curb such practices at the grassroots level.