Child Marriages Shift To Older Teens In Nalgonda

NALGONDA: The changing age pattern of child marriages in Nalgonda district has posed a challenge to child protection and police officials, as most underage brides are now aged 16–17, only months away from turning majors. Officials said socio‑economic factors have driven this trend, with 70 per cent of child marriages falling in this age group. Over 78 per cent were reported among BC and ST community families. While ST community cases have reduced compared to earlier years, BC families now top the list. The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, bans marriages of girls under 18 and boys under 21, with punishment for conducting, aiding or promoting them. A decade ago, most child marriages involved girls aged 13–14, whose age could be assessed by appearance. Now, officials must rely on birth certificates, school records or medical certificates, slowing intervention. District collector Badugu Chandrasekhar warned that child marriages harm girls’ health and said action would be taken against parents and priests involved. District child protection officer Kasarla Ganesh reported that 118 child marriages had been averted since 2024, but acknowledged immense pressure from families, relatives and even political leaders when brides were close to majority. He noted that parents increasingly conduct such marriages in function halls, making detection easier. In the 2026 marriage season alone, 20 cases were reported in four months. Activist K. Subash urged a new law mandating the age of bride and groom on wedding invitations, with function hall owners, priests and music bands required to verify proof before booking. Violators should be held responsible, he said, calling for amendments to the PCMA. Age wise Child Marriages in Nalgonda Age (In Years) Year 13 14 15 16 17 18 Total 2024 2 2 5 6 10 0 25 2025 1 4 15 25 25 3 73 2026 (till March) 0 0 4 4 10 2 20 Grand Total 3 6 24 35 45 5 118 Caste Wise Child Marriages Year BC OC SC ST Grand Total 2024 10 0 3 12 25 2025 38 5 14 16 73 2026 15 1 2 2 20 Grand Total 63 6 19 30 118



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