In 2015, the Indian Government launched the programme “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” (Save Daughters, Educate daughters) with an aim to empower women. Undoubtedly, the programme was conceived with good motive. But it remains to be seen how well it has been implemented on the ground. Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself promotes this programme extensively, especially during his rallies.
Contrary to PM’s women empowerment narrative, Shobha Chauhan, the BJP candidate from Sojat in Rajasthan’s Pali district has stirred a controversy by claiming that she would ensure no police intervention during child marriage if voted to power. In a video, that has gone viral, she can be heard saying that “She had Satta (Power) and Sangathan (State Government) and wouldn’t let the police intervene in child marriage”. She was addressing a public gathering in Sojat.
Child marriage is a social evil and was banned in 1929. The law was once again updated in 2006. Further, Modi government brought in Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2016 to discourage the practice which is still prevalent in India in spite of stringent laws well in place.
While the country is grappling with this age-old social evil, Chauhan’s statement makes us question the sincerity of our leaders in eradicating this practice. Leaders who ironically determine our collective fate are issuing such statements when different government and non-government organisations strive to combat menace like Child Marriage with stringent steps. This will tar the image of India internationally. We will be mocked by foreigners saying ‘see this is how Indians want to be a superpower with their leaders encouraging child marriage’. It is a great shame for all of us a nation.
Meanwhile, the Election Commission officer of the district has assured that the matter is being investigated taking up all the possible angles. He further adds that proper action will be taken against Sobha Chauhan, wife of IAS officer Rajesh Chauhan if the video is found to be genuine.
