BANDIPORA, JANUARY 20 : Under the ongoing Child Marriage Free Bharat Campaign, an awareness cum sensitization programme was conducted today in the Athwatoo and Pannar areas of District Bandipora with active participation from community stakeholders.
During the programme, Masjid Imams, Auqaf Committee members and local residents were sensitized about the harmful impacts of child marriage, relevant legal provisions and the preventive measures needed to eradicate this social evil. The role of community leaders, religious institutions, and families in protecting child Rights and ensuring their education and well-being was strongly emphasized.
Officials from DCPU, CWC, CHL and CHD highlighted that child marriage adversely affects the physical, mental, and social development of children, particularly girls, and urged participants to act as community watchdogs by reporting any such incidents.
The Child Helpline number 1098 was widely shared among participants, encouraging them to use the service for reporting cases of child marriage or seeking immediate assistance for children in distress.
The programme concluded with a collective pledge by community members to support government efforts and to work towards making District Bandipora free from child marriage, ensuring a safer and more secure future for children.