The National Commission for Women (NCW) on 27 August constituted a five-member fact-finding team to investigate the reported practice of buying and selling brides — locally known as 'Paro' or 'Molki' — in the Mewat region, particularly Nuh district of Haryana. The panel has been directed to submit its findings and recommendations to the Commission within 10 working days.

What the 'Paro/Molki' Practice Involves

According to an NCW statement, the practice involves women — often from economically vulnerable communities in other states — being brought to the region through intermediaries and married to local men, allegedly in exchange for money paid to brokers or the woman's family. In some reported cases, women are allegedly resold and subjected to repeated abuse, raising serious concerns about inter-state trafficking and violations of their rights, dignity, and safety.

The Commission said it has taken cognisance of these reports and that the inquiry is aimed at establishing facts and identifying systemic gaps that may allow the exploitation of women to continue.

Who Will Lead the Inquiry

The fact-finding team will be headed by P.M. Nair, a retired IPS officer and former Director General of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). Other members include B.K. Sinha, IPS (Retd.), former Director General of Police, Haryana; Seema Singh, Associate Professor at Delhi University; Tripti Bhoir, filmmaker and actor; and Manmohan Verma, Law Officer at the NCW.

Scope of the Investigation

The panel will examine the prevalence, nature, and functioning of the practice, including the role of intermediaries and possible trafficking networks operating across state borders. It will also look into concerns relating to legal identity, inheritance rights, child marriage, social stigma, violence and exploitation, and access to justice and state services.

The team is expected to conduct an on-the-spot inquiry in Nuh/Mewat and other locations as necessary, and will interact with survivors, local residents, police and civil administration officials, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders.

What the NCW Chairperson Said

NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar described the concerns surrounding 'Paro' or 'Molki' marriages as serious and requiring a fact-based examination. 'A woman cannot be bought, sold or treated as a commodity in the name of marriage. Marriage is a relationship of dignity and equality, not a transaction,' she said.

Rahatkar added that the NCW would ensure that the voices, rights, and dignity of women affected by the practice are not overlooked. 'If trafficking, exploitation or systemic failures are found, the Commission will recommend firm and effective measures to prevent their recurrence,' she said.

What Happens Next

The fact-finding report, due within 10 working days, is expected to include specific recommendations to prevent the recurrence of such practices and strengthen safeguards for affected women. Depending on findings, the NCW could escalate the matter to law enforcement agencies and recommend legislative or administrative interventions targeting inter-state trafficking networks.