The Legal Aid Cell on Tuesday stopped a child marriage that took place on October 28, 2010, in Nilakottai and directed the police to initiate action against girl’s father, her husband and in-laws.
In a petition submitted to the cell, the girl’s mother P. Muthu Pechi of Anaipatti stated that her 16-year-old daughter had been married to V. Nagendran (30) of Sirunaickenpatti village, son of her sister-in law, while she was studying in 10th class.
Pandi, the woman’s husband, coerced his daughter for early marriage. At the time of marriage, in-laws assured that they would allow the girl to continue her studies. But they did not send her daughter to school. Her teen-age daughter came back to her mother’s house and explained her pathetic condition. Later, Muthu Pechi had managed to get a seat for her daughter for Plus One in a private school and also hostel accommodation. But Nagendran and his parents lodged a complaint with the all-woman police station, Nilakottai, in April, 2013, pleading to find her missing wife.
Sub-Inspector reportedly summoned Muthu Pechi to appear before her with the girl. She told that the mother had no right with the girl after marriage.
Muthu Pechi approached the legal aid cell, seeking protection to her and her daughter. Hearing the petition, the secretary of the cell, Judge S. Padmanabhan, directed the Superintendent of Police T. Jayachandran to take action against girl’s father Pandi, her husband V. Nagendran, and her in-laws.
