Punjab: Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development, Dr. Baljit Kaur, said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab Government is working with firm determination to eradicate the social evil of child marriage from the state.
Sharing details of the government’s efforts, Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that 111 cases of child marriage have been successfully prevented in Punjab since January 2024, reflecting the Mann Government’s strong commitment to protecting children’s rights and ensuring a safe and dignified future for them.
Providing district-wise information, the minister said that five cases were prevented in Amritsar, one in Barnala, nine in Bathinda, four in Fatehgarh Sahib, four in Ferozepur, 18 in Fazilka, three in Faridkot, eight in Gurdaspur, one in Hoshiarpur, two in Jalandhar, three in Ludhiana, five in Kapurthala, eight in Mansa, 12 in Moga, five in Sri Muktsar Sahib, four in Patiala, two in Pathankot, one in Rupnagar, one in Sangrur, four in SAS Nagar (Mohali), five in Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar and six cases in Tarn Taran.
Child Safety Is Top Priority, Strict Action Underway: Dr Baljit Kaur
Dr. Baljit Kaur emphasized that securing the future of children is the highest priority of the Mann Government. She said strict yet sensitive action is being taken to prevent child marriages and protect children from physical, emotional and social harm.
Dr. Baljit Kaur further informed that to strengthen the child marriage prevention framework, the Punjab Government has appointed 2,076 Child Marriage Prohibition Officers (CMPOs) across the state. These include Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs) of the Social Security, Women and Child Development Department and Principals of Senior Secondary Schools.
The minister said that child marriage is not merely a legal violation but a serious threat to children’s education, health and dreams. Dr. Baljit Kaur added that every prevented child marriage—especially in the case of girls—creates an opportunity for education, independence and a better future.
Highlighting the importance of public participation, Dr. Baljit Kaur said collective support is essential to eliminate social evils. She urged citizens to immediately report any information related to child marriage by calling the Child Helpline 1098 or contacting the nearest Child Marriage Prohibition Officer, reiterating the government’s commitment to ensuring a safe, dignified and fearless childhood for every child in Punjab.