FARIDKOT, Aug. 14 — A 16-year-old girl was rescued from being married off in a Faridkot village by the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), officials said Wednesday. The intervention took place in Sangrahoor village under provisions of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.
Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Baljit Kaur commended the swift action of officials and stakeholders, saying strict enforcement of child protection laws is essential to safeguard minors. “Every child deserves a safe and bright childhood, free from the threat of early marriage,” she said.
The girl was produced before the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), which provided counselling and issued directions for her care. She was later handed over to her parents after they signed a written undertaking promising to ensure her safety, education, and well-being. Officials said regular follow-up and monitoring will be conducted to protect the child’s best interests.
Kaur reiterated the Punjab government’s commitment to making the state child marriage-free, noting that continuous efforts are underway to strengthen awareness, prevention, and law enforcement systems. She appealed to the public for cooperation.
“If anyone has information about a child marriage taking place in their vicinity, they should immediately call the Child Helpline at 1098,” she said, assuring that the identity of informants will be kept strictly confidential.
