Prabhavathi, Administrator of the Sakhi One Stop Centre, speaking at a Child Marriage Prohibition Act awareness programme, said that children should focus exclusively on their education during their formative years and should not be distracted by influences that may divert them from their studies and career goals. She emphasised that every child should set clear objectives and work diligently to achieve them. She also cautioned children against engaging in conversations or associations with unknown persons in society.
She observed that, in recent times, many girls are risking their future by being drawn towards undesirable influences. She therefore urged parents to closely monitor the activities of their children attending schools and colleges and to remain attentive to their overall well-being.
Revathi, Legal Advisor at the Sakhi One Stop Centre, spoke about the provisions of the Child Marriage Prohibition Act and said that girls should not be married before attaining the age of 18 years and boys before attaining the age of 21 years. Any marriage conducted below these prescribed ages constitutes child marriage, which is a punishable offence under the law and attracts imprisonment and fines.
Mamata, District Mission Coordinator of the Women and Child Development Department, Madikeri, speaking on the occasion, said that the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao – scheme is a centrally sponsored initiative aimed at protecting and educating girls. She added that the scheme also seeks to address the declining child sex ratio by encouraging the birth, care, and education of girl children. She stressed that every household has a responsibility to protect girls and provide them with quality education. She also provided information about the Children’s Helpline 1098 and the Emergency Service 112.
The programme was attended by teachers and schoolchildren from government higher primary schools and high schools.
