Child marriages in Odisha persist at alarming rates, with over 8,000 cases reported in six years despite government efforts
OdishaPlus Bureau
Odisha has reported at least three child marriage cases every day during the last six years, despite several initiatives taken by the administration, according to government data. Activists working in this field attribute tribal practice, dowry, migration of laborer families and parents’ fear that daughters may elope to this startling figure.
The data reveals that 8,159 child marriages have taken place across Odisha from 2019 to February 2025. Of them, 1,347 cases have been reported from Nabarangpur, the highest among all 30 districts of Odisha during that period.
While Ganjam district is in the second spot with 966 cases, Koraput comes next with 636. It was followed by Mayurbhanj (594), Rayagada (408), Balasore (361), Keonjhar (328), Kandhamal (308) and Nayagarh (308).
The lowest recorded number of 57 instances has been identified in Jharsuguda district over the past six years. Social activist Namrata Chadha emphasized, “Child marriage cannot be eradicated instantly. It is essential to foster an environment and society that supports girl children and their families, discouraging such practices.” She noted that marrying off underage children is a customary practice among tribal communities, particularly within the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups.
Chadha further explained that parents who often migrate for work tend to arrange marriages for their daughters before they reach the legal age, believing it will secure their future and ensure their safety, as they fear that an unmarried girl might elope, which could bring dishonor to the family.
The social activist noted that dowry plays a significant role in these marriages, with the demand increasing as the bride ages.
Chadha emphasized that this issue could be resolved by offering adequate education and skill development training, enabling women to become self-sufficient and view marriage as just one of many options for their future.
To combat child marriages, the Odisha government has been conducting awareness campaigns every three months at the panchayat, block, and Anganwadi levels, according to an official.
The child development project officer, the panchayat executive officer, and the wardens or matrons of residential hostels have been appointed as the primary officers responsible for enforcing marriage prohibitions.
In addition, the leaders of all schools and colleges have been assigned the role of chief marriage information officers, according to the official statement. Furthermore, the government has been holding meetings of state-level committees established under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act every six months.
