Police investigate double child marriage in Belagavi district

A minor girl in Belagavi district has been forced into two marriages, first at age 12 and then again at 15. This situation has prompted an inquiry by Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar. She has ordered officials to take the girl to a government care center, ensuring her well-being until she turns 18. The girl has already experienced two tragic child births, both resulting in the death of her infants. Her first baby was born at Hukkeri Government Hospital in 2022 but did not survive. Her second marriage was to a 26-year-old man from Gokak, but the baby they had also died shortly after birth. An NGO named Spandana brought the girl's situation to the attention of local authorities. They have filed a police complaint under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (PoCSO) Act. The NGO claims that the girl’s family and her second husband's family misrepresented her age to allow the marriages. Spandana founder V. Susheela expressed concerns over systemic issues that allow child marriage to happen. She has called for accountability from both government employees and the society that allows such practices. Lawsuits have been filed against the girl's husbands and their families under several legal provisions related to child marriage and sexual offences. Police have confirmed that a case has been registered against all involved parties.