Karnal Police File FIR After Minor Groom Marries Adult Bride in Temple Ceremony

Karnal, Haryana: A love marriage in Karnal’s Nirmal Vihar area has taken a legal turn after it was revealed that the groom is a minor. Authorities have filed a case against the bride, the officiating priest, and other involved parties. The bride is reported to be 22 years old.

The incident dates back to January 13, when the couple approached the Sitamai police station, claiming that they had married in a local temple. Upon verifying documents, the police discovered that the groom was under 21 years of age, rendering him legally a minor. Both the bride and the groom were subsequently produced before the Protection and Prohibition of Child Marriage Officer.

According to statements, the bride insisted that the marriage was conducted with her consent according to Hindu rituals. The ceremony was performed by priest Kamalkant, who also issued a marriage certificate. While the bride’s age was verified to be over 22, the groom’s birth certificate showed him to be approximately 20 years and 2 months old at the time of the wedding, classifying him as a minor under the law.

Following completion of the investigation, authorities submitted their report to the SP of Karnal. Based on the findings, a case under the Child Marriage Prohibition Act has been registered against the bride, the priest, and two witnesses. Police have indicated that further action, including possible arrests, is forthcoming. The Protection and Prohibition of Child Marriage Officer confirmed that the marriage violated legal provisions and is therefore not recognized under the law.