Bhubaneswar: A child marriage attempt was foiled in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday after members of Ruchika Social Welfare Organisation conducted a surprise raid based on credible information. The incident took place at the Khandual Temple near Sarakantara village, under Khandagiri Police Station, where preparations were underway to marry off a 16-year-old girl to a youth from Nayagarh.
A wedding tent had been erected and arrangements for the feast were in progress when the organisation intervened and halted the ceremony. The girl’s family members allegedly took her to an undisclosed location, raising concerns about her safety.
Police have launched a search operation to trace the girl and the groom, and several family members have been detained for questioning. Interrogation is underway to determine who orchestrated the marriage and assisted in hiding the girl.
