Hyderabad, Aug 1, 2025:
A case of illegal child marriage was narrowly stopped in Telangana when a Class 8 student told her teacher that she had married a 40-year-old man named Srinivas Goud from Nadnigama village in Chevella Mandal.
After hearing her story, the teacher informed the District Child Protection Unit and the police. Officials quickly acted and found photos of the girl standing beside the older man with a garland. This clearly broke the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act.
The 40-year-old man, Srinivas Goud, works as a daily wage laborer. Officials say that the girl’s mother was searching for a marriage option for her daughter. She accepted the illegal marriage even though the girl is a minor.
Authorities arrested Srinivas Goud, the mediator, the priest who performed the ceremony, and members of the girl’s family. The minor was put in protective custody, and plans were made for her counseling and a safe return to school.
Child rights activists praised the girl’s bravery and the quick response of the teacher and officials. They emphasized the need for vigilance, awareness, and open communication to prevent such cases. They also encouraged communities to report any suspected child marriages right away.