Pune Police Act Against Child Marriage in Upscale Balewadi Area

A troubling case of child marriage has emerged in Pune's upscale Balewadi area, where a 15-year-old girl was married off against her will. The police have registered a case against 35 individuals, including the groom and family members, under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act. This incident raises serious concerns about the persistence of child marriage in modern society. Senior police officials emphasize the need for strict action against all involved, aiming to send a clear message that such practices will not be tolerated. The article delves into the legal implications and historical context of child marriage in India, shedding light on ongoing efforts to combat this social issue.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 12, 2026, 15:54 IST

Incident of Child Marriage in Pune

Photo: IANS

Pune, May 12: A disturbing case of child marriage has surfaced in Pune, a city known for its progressive outlook and educational institutions. A minor girl was reportedly married off against her will in Balewadi, a prominent area of the city. In response, law enforcement has initiated legal proceedings against 35 individuals, including the groom, his family, and relatives of the bride.

According to police reports, the marriage occurred on Sunday in Balewadi, involving a 15-year-old girl.

It is alarming that both families were aware of the girl's underage status yet proceeded with the marriage, disregarding legal and ethical obligations.

By the time authorities were alerted about the secretive ceremony, the marriage had already been finalized. The police quickly began an investigation and confirmed that the act was intentional.

The Baner police have taken decisive action regarding this incident. A formal complaint has been filed against the 22-year-old groom, his parents, and other relatives who attended the wedding.

Senior Police Inspector Anil Vibhute from Bavdhan Police Station stated that charges have been filed against 35 individuals, including the groom and attendees, under Sections 9, 10, and 11 of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006.

Inspector Vibhute expressed concern, stating, “It is deeply regrettable that in 2026, we still face the need to combat such societal issues. The girl is only 15 years old. Upon receiving reports of a minor being married in Balewadi, we promptly registered a First Information Report (FIR). The investigation is currently underway.”

He emphasized, “We aim to convey a strong message that anyone involved in child marriage, whether a family member or a guest, will face consequences.”

Child marriage, as defined by the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, involves unions where females are under 18 and males are below 21, contributing to cycles of poverty, gender inequality, and health risks, especially in rural and tribal regions. Additionally, such marriages are classified as child rape under Indian law.

According to the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, any sexual activity by a man with a wife under 18 is considered rape. The Supreme Court has clarified that penetrative sexual assault by a husband against a child bride constitutes aggravated penetrative sexual assault, punishable under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.

Efforts to eliminate child marriage in India date back to the 19th century, with reformers like Raja Rammohan Roy, Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, and Mahatma Jyotirao Phule advocating against the practice. This led to the Age of Consent Act, 1891, and the Child Marriage Restraint Act (Sarda Act) of 1929, which established the minimum marriage age at 14 for girls and 18 for boys.

After Independence, the government increased these age limits through amendments in 1948 (15 for girls), 1978 (18 for girls and 21 for boys), culminating in the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, which set the legal age at 18 for women and 21 for men.