Nagpur: On a day when academic success was being celebrated across Maharashtra with the declaration of Class 10 and 12 results, a disturbing incident emerged from Kamptee town near Nagpur — two 15-year-old girls were being forced into child marriage. Timely intervention by the Department of Women and Child Development prevented the illegal ceremonies, safeguarding the futures of the minors.

Acting on a tip-off, the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU) swiftly collaborated with local police to conduct surprise inspections at the residences of both girls. Upon verifying documents, officials confirmed that both girls were underage and only 15 years old, well below the legal marriage age of 18.

Legal action was initiated under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, and a sealed report was prepared by the child protection team. The girls were then placed under police custody and later shifted to a government-run childcare facility for protection and rehabilitation.

The rescue operation was conducted under the direction of District Women and Child Development Officer Ranjit Kurre and led by District Child Protection Officer Mustaq Pathan. The team also included Child Welfare Coordinator Prasannjeet Gaikwad, CDPO Anjali Nimbalkar, Police Inspector Prashant Jumde, and social workers Sadhana Hatwar, Jyoti Nimje, Meenakshi Dhadade, Shaina Shaikh, Kailas Padole, Milind Meshram, and Roshni Akhare.

Officials confirmed that further investigation is underway, and necessary legal proceedings will follow to hold accountable those attempting to marry off minors.