Sharp Surge in Child Marriage Cases: Assam Leads the Tally

Data from the National Crime Records Bureau reveals a troubling sixfold increase in cases registered under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act in 2023, compared to the previous year. Assam stands out, contributing nearly 90% of the total cases recorded this year.

The records further show a disturbing trend with 16,737 girls and 129 boys being kidnapped or abducted for marriage in 2023. The total number of cases filed under the Act rose to 6,038 in 2023, up from 1,002 in 2022 and 1,050 in 2021, underscoring a significant increase in such incidents.

Assam leads with 5,267 cases, while Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and West Bengal follow with significantly lower figures. Notably, no cases were reported in states and territories like Chhattisgarh, Nagaland, Ladakh, and Lakshadweep.