Mysuru: The Deputy Director of Department of Women and Child Welfare has informed that the State Government has implemented the recommendations of Prohibition of Child Marriage (Karnataka amendment) Act, 2016 strictly since from Mar. 3, 2018 besides taking measures to create public awareness among the people about this Act.

It declared every child marriage void ab initio from March 3, 2018, enhancing the penalty under sections 9, 10, 11 and 13; and enabling concerned Police officer to take notice of an offence suo motto.

This Act has also given greater powers to the Police and increasing the penalty for child marriage.

The Amended Bill seeks to ensure zero tolerance towards any child marriage, granting powers to Policemen and enhancing penalties for those attending marriage ceremonies of minors. While the Legislation did not prescribe a minimum punishment for offenders so far, it now proposes rigorous imprisonment of one year up to two years.

If an adult male who is above 18 years of age contracts child marriage, he shall be punishable with rigorous imprisonment for 2 years or with fine which may extend to one lakh rupees or both.

If a person performs, conducts, directs or abets any child marriage, he shall be punishable with rigorous imprisonment for 2 years or with fine which may extend to one lakh rupees or both.

For details, contact Ph: 0821-2498031 or 2495432.