'No More Shackled Dreams': Assam CM Vows Total War on Child Marriage
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma announces over 500 arrests in a massive crackdown to eradicate child marriage and protect daughters' dreams.
In a resolute move to protect the future of the state's youth, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has declared a full-scale offensive against the practice of child marriage. The Chief Minister has vowed that the state government will act with "full determination" until the heinous crime is completely wiped out from Assam, ensuring that no daughter's dreams are shackled by forced early unions.
Massive Crackdown: Over 500 Arrested
The state has already witnessed a significant surge in enforcement actions. According to recent data shared by the Chief Minister, the ongoing statewide crackdown has led to the arrest of 524 individuals. This intensive operation has resulted in the registration of 441 separate cases as authorities move to penalize those facilitating or participating in child marriages.
Speaking to reporters in Tinsukia, CM Sarma emphasized that the operation is far from over. He noted that while over 500 people have been detained, there are still several individuals left to be apprehended. He made it clear that the administration will not spare anyone involved in these crimes.
"Our action against child marriage will continue with full determination. No one will now be able to shackle the dreams of our daughters in chains," the Chief Minister posted on X.
Dhubri Emerges as the Epicenter of Detentions
While the drive is statewide, the Dhubri district has emerged as a primary focus of the police operations, recording the highest number of detentions. Following direct orders from the Chief Minister, police in Dhubri have detained 63 people across nine different police stations.
The crackdown in Dhubri has been comprehensive, targeting not only the primary culprits but also the parents and guardians who allowed or encouraged the child marriages. The breakdown of detentions in the district is as follows:
- Dhubri Sadar: 18 people
- Golakganj: 15 people
- Bilasipara: 9 people
- Gauripur: 8 people
- Chapar: 5 people
- Fakirganj: 5 people
- Tamarhat: 2 people
- Agomoni: 1 person
A Renewed Push for Social Change
This latest wave of arrests marks a renewed and aggressive push by the Assam government to tackle a deep-rooted social issue. By targeting the support systems—including guardians—the state aims to send a powerful message that child marriage will no longer be tolerated under any circumstances. The government's objective remains clear: to ensure a future where every child in Assam has the opportunity to grow, learn, and pursue their aspirations without the burden of premature marriage.