Why is K'taka Minister Concerned About Child Marriages?
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Synopsis
Karnataka's Minister for Backward Class Development, Shivaraj Tangadagi, raises alarms over child marriages in Koppal district and his constituency, urging authorities to step up their efforts. This article explores the pressing issue of child marriage and the call for stricter regulations to protect vulnerable children.
Key Takeaways
- Minister Tangadagi highlights the issue of child marriages in Karnataka.
- Four cases in Koppal district were reported in recent months.
- Authorities are urged to take serious action against this practice.
- The Karnataka Child Rights Observatory calls for stricter regulations.
- Community awareness is essential to combat child marriages.
Bengaluru, June 18 (NationPress) The Karnataka Minister for Backward Class Development, Kannada and Culture, Shivaraj Tangadagi, has voiced serious concerns regarding the persistent issue of child marriages in the Koppal district and within his Kanakagiri Assembly constituency. He criticized local authorities for their inadequate response.
During a quarterly review meeting in Gangavathi on Wednesday, Minister Tangadagi highlighted that young children are still being forced into marriage, citing four reported cases in Koppal district during April and May.
“In my Kanakagiri Assembly constituency, two child marriage incidents have been documented. What actions are being taken in response?” the Minister queried officials from the Department of Women and Child Welfare.
In their defense, the officials mentioned that FIRs had been filed concerning these incidents.
However, Minister Tangadagi expressed his discontent, asserting that merely filing FIRs is insufficient and that greater efforts are needed to promote awareness about the problem.
“Officials from the Women and Child Welfare Department and the Police Department must take child marriage seriously,” he emphasized.
He further directed authorities to interrogate those who support or facilitate child marriages, warning them against yielding to pressure from local politicians or influential figures.
“What kind of society are we living in? Young children are being coerced into marriage. The authorities must address this issue with the urgency it warrants and implement proactive measures to eradicate such practices,” he insisted.
Koppal district is recognized as one of the most disadvantaged regions in Karnataka. Minister Tangadagi also serves as the in-charge minister for Koppal district.
The Karnataka Child Rights Observatory previously urged the state government to formulate stringent regulations to combat child marriages and provide free, compulsory education for all girls up to the age of 18.
This directive followed the story of a minor girl from Reddihalli Gollarahatti in Challakere taluk of Chitradurga district, who successfully resisted her marriage.
The State Convenor of the Karnataka Child Rights Observatory, Vasudeva Sharma N.V., sent a letter to the Chief Minister and shared it with all ministers, judges, and the women’s commission, demanding the government enact stricter laws to prevent child marriages.
In a recent meeting with Deputy Commissioners and Zilla Panchayat CEOs, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah issued strong directives aimed at addressing social issues, including child marriages and child pregnancies.
Point of View
We stand firmly with the voices calling for action against child marriages. Such practices undermine the rights of children and perpetuate cycles of poverty and inequality. We advocate for a society where every child can enjoy their right to education and a childhood free from exploitation. It is imperative for authorities to act decisively against this social evil.
NationPress
18/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What actions are being taken to prevent child marriages in Karnataka?
Authorities are being urged to take more proactive measures, including raising awareness and enforcing stricter laws to prevent child marriages.
Why are child marriages still prevalent in Koppal?
Cultural practices and lack of education contribute to the persistence of child marriages in Koppal district.
What can be done to stop child marriages?
Community education, strict enforcement of laws, and support systems for at-risk families are essential to combat child marriages.
