In a case that has turned the usual narrative on its head, police intervention in north Bengal did not come to stop a girl’s marriage, but to address an unusual role reversal. From the Phalakata police station area of Alipurduar district, a young woman marrying a minor boy has sparked legal action and stirred conversations well beyond the locality.
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The groom is 17 years old, while the bride is 19. According to police sources, the two had been in a romantic relationship for several months. On Wednesday, the couple decided to get married. The minor put sindoor on his girlfriend, and the marriage was solemnised informally.
Complaint triggers police action
After the marriage, the young woman’s father himself took her to her in-laws’ house. The minor groom’s family, too, was reportedly willing to accept the relationship. Though the matter initially remained quiet, it came to the attention of others in the locality. Someone contacted Child Line and filed a complaint.
Following this, Child Line authorities informed the Phalakata police station. On Thursday, police visited the groom’s house and arrested the young woman on charges of marrying a minor. The minor has since been placed in a home for counselling.
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Woman remains firm despite arrest
As the incident became public, it sparked considerable discussion in the district. However, the young woman has expressed no regret. She stated, "I am willing to face imprisonment for him, but will not break the relationship." According to her, once her husband reaches the legal age for marriage, no one will be able to stop them.
Police have filed a case against the young woman under relevant sections of the law. She will be produced in court on Friday. Phalakata police station IC Prashant Biswas said such a case was unprecedented in his long career.
