Patna: Following a Supreme Court (SC) directive, a case was registered in Patna district under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act against the parents of a 16-year-old girl and a 32-year-old man, who had got married last year, police said on Wednesday. Police are currently searching for the priest and facilitator who conducted the wedding ceremony in Naubatpur block of Patna district on Dec 9, 2024.The victim had filed a petition in the Supreme Court seeking annulment of her marriage, claiming it was forced upon her.Phulwarisharif subdivisional police officer (SDPO) Deepak Kumar said that marriages involving girls under 18 years of age and boys under 21 are illegal. “In her petition, the minor alleged physical and mental abuse by her husband. She expressed her desire to continue her education and build a career. On March 31, she fled her home with the help of a friend. Subsequently, on April 4, 2025, her family filed a kidnapping case at Piplawan police station against her friend and his family members, after which the minor moved the apex court,” the SDPO said.Her family cited parental illness as the reason for arranging the marriage.The Supreme Court, after hearing the case, issued notices to Delhi and Bihar Police, directing them to ensure the safety of the girl and her friend who helped her escape. The court also ordered appropriate action in the matter. The minor girl stated she does not wish to return to her in-laws’ house, and wants to live on her own terms.“The investigation is currently ongoing. Legal action is being taken against all parties involved in facilitating the illegal marriage,” the SDPO said.
