The Assam government has taken strict action against violations of child protection laws after an elected Panchayat representative in Dhubri district was disqualified and removed from office for breaching the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006. The decision was announced on December 21 following the completion of an official inquiry led by district authorities.
Officials said the move reinforces the state’s zero-tolerance policy toward child marriage. The action is also being seen as a strong message to elected representatives that public office does not grant immunity from the law.
Inquiry Confirms Violation of Child Marriage Act
According to the district administration, the removed individual served as an Anchalik Panchayat Member and was found directly involved in facilitating a child marriage. The inquiry established that the marriage took place in violation of legal age requirements laid down under central legislation. The District Commissioner of Dhubri ordered the disqualification after reviewing evidence collected during the investigation. Officials confirmed that due process was followed before the final decision was taken.
Legal Provisions Invoked
The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, clearly criminalises the conduct, promotion, and solemnisation of marriages involving minors. Under the law, individuals holding positions of authority face stricter scrutiny if they are found complicit.
Authorities said the Panchayat member’s actions were incompatible with constitutional duties and ethical responsibilities attached to elected office. As a result, removal from the post was deemed necessary.
Administration Sends Strong Signal to Local Bodies
Senior officials stated that the action reflects the Assam government’s commitment to eradicating child marriage at the grassroots level. Panchayat members are expected to uphold social reform laws and protect vulnerable communities, particularly children.
The administration noted that local self-governance institutions play a crucial role in reporting and preventing illegal practices. Any failure to do so, especially active involvement, will attract strict consequences.
Assam’s Ongoing Crackdown on Child Marriage
Assam has been running a sustained campaign against child marriage through law enforcement drives, awareness programmes, and legal action. Several arrests and prosecutions have already taken place across districts in recent years.
Officials said Dhubri remains a focus area due to social and economic vulnerabilities. The government has intensified monitoring in rural belts to ensure compliance with child protection laws.
Political and Social Reactions
The removal of an elected Panchayat member has triggered discussions across political and civil society circles in the district. Many activists welcomed the decision, calling it a necessary step to restore faith in local governance.
Community leaders said the move would deter others from violating the law under social pressure or personal beliefs. They also stressed the need for continuous education to change long-standing practices.
Opposition and Civil Society Views
Opposition leaders largely refrained from criticising the decision, acknowledging that child marriage remains a serious social crime. Some, however, urged the government to combine enforcement with rehabilitation and education.
Child rights groups emphasised that punitive action must be accompanied by stronger community engagement. They called for more counselling, school retention efforts, and economic support for families.
Impact on Panchayat Governance
The disqualification has created a vacancy in the Anchalik Panchayat, which officials said will be filled according to prescribed election or nomination procedures. Until then, administrative duties will be managed through interim arrangements.
Authorities clarified that Panchayat institutions must function as agents of social change, not facilitators of regressive practices. Any deviation will invite disciplinary action.
Lessons for Elected Representatives
Officials stressed that elected representatives are expected to lead by example. Holding public office comes with legal and moral responsibilities that extend beyond political affiliations.
The Dhubri case, they said, serves as a reminder that accountability applies at every level of governance.
Call for Public Cooperation
The district administration urged citizens to report cases of child marriage without fear. Helplines, women and child welfare offices, and local authorities remain accessible for complaints.
Officials reiterated that public cooperation is vital to ending child marriage permanently. They appealed to parents, religious leaders, and community elders to support lawful and ethical practices.
Looking Ahead
With continued enforcement and awareness, authorities believe Assam can significantly reduce child marriage cases. The government plans to strengthen coordination between Panchayats, schools, and health departments.
The Dhubri action marks another step in that direction, reinforcing the message that the law will prevail over custom.