Phek DC and others during Awareness prog on prevention of child marriage at Phek town on May 2.
Our Correspondent
Kohima | May 2
An awareness programme on prevention of child marriage on account of Akshay Tritiya with stakeholders and apex organization was held at Phek town under the aegis of the District Administration and Mission Shakti-District Hub for Empowerment of Women and Sakhi- One Stop Centre, Phek on May 2.
Rhosietho Ngouri, Deputy Commissioner, Phek delivered keynote address. As a newly appointed DC of the district, he urged various apex organisation, bodies, civil organisations to collaborate and cooperate together and work for the welfare of the people.
He stressed that child marriage needs to be checked and stopped as there are various negative aspects of early marriage like mentally, physically, spiritual and financial well being.
“We need to stop following old age practices since there are laws in place which are passed by the parliament. Violations of these laws will face consequences as per the law,” he said.
Marriage certificate can be obtained from ADC Phek headquarter for those who need it, he said.
The resource person Vethothi Vero, Retainer Lawyer, Phek DLSA spoke on the topic of Prohibition of Child Marriage Act 2006. He stated that the intent of the Act is to prohibit solemnisation of child marriage.
He explained that the age of marriage for males is 21 years and 18 years for females. He explained on the meaning of Child marriage, role and functions of Family Court, Judicial Magistrate First Class, District Magistrate and Child Marriage Prohibition Officer.
Vero stated that marrying a child by adult male, solemnisation of child marriage, promoting or permitting solemnisation of child marriage is a punishable offence under the Act and all offence under Child Marriage Act are cognizable and non-bailable offence punishable upto 2 years imprisonment with Rs 1 lakh fine.
Zhonelu Tunyi, President, Chakhesang Mothers Association appreciated the department for organizing such awareness programs. We need to adhere to new laws in line with our advancing society, she said.
Maintaining that a good society depends on good family, she said “So, one needs to plan carefully before marriage.” She also urged the participants to spread awareness about prevention of child marriage in the society.
The programme was chaired by Vilenuo K Thisa, District Mission Coordinator, SANKALP- District Hub for Empowerment of Women, Mission Shakti Phek. Rev Thepuchiyi Khusoh, Pastor, Phek Town Baptist Church and Thepfuneizo Yhor, Pastor Angami Baptist Church pronounced invocation and benediction respectively.
