Following a Tripura Times report, the Tripura Child Rights Commission intervened in a shocking case of parental abuse and attempted child marriage. Two minor girls were rescued and hospitalized. TCPCR Chairperson Jayanti Debbarma assured strict legal action and support, highlighting the power of media and child protection systems.
In a swift and commendable response to a shocking case of child abuse, the Tripura Commission for Protection of Child Rights (TCPCR) has stepped in to ensure safety and justice for two minor girls who were reportedly subjected to severe parental violence. The intervention came a day after Tripura Times published a news article highlighting the plight of the two sisters, prompting immediate action from authorities.
The incident came to light when the two minor girls fled to their maternal grandmother’s house after allegedly being physically assaulted and confined by their parents. The elder sister, who is just 15 years old, reportedly faced the brunt of the abuse after she refused to enter into a forced marriage. The younger sibling, also a minor, was caught in the crossfire of the abusive environment at home.
The issue raised serious concerns about child rights and safety in the state, particularly in cases involving forced marriage and parental abuse—areas that remain underreported and under-monitored in many rural and semi-urban pockets of the country.
Following the news report, the Childline authorities and members of the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) acted immediately to rescue the victims. The girls were promptly shifted to the Bishalgarh Sub-Divisional Hospital for medical attention, as the elder sister’s condition was reportedly deteriorating due to the extent of the injuries and trauma suffered.
On Saturday, TCPCR Chairperson Jayanti Debbarma led a delegation of officials to visit the girls at the hospital. She inquired about their condition and coordinated with hospital authorities to ensure that both victims received proper treatment—both medical and psychological. Chairperson Debbarma also interacted with the staff and the doctors on duty, underscoring the importance of trauma-informed care in handling such sensitive cases.
Speaking to the media after her visit, Debbarma stated, “This is a deeply disturbing case. No child should be forced into marriage or suffer abuse at the hands of anyone, especially not their parents. The Commission will ensure that the girls receive full support and protection. We are also committed to taking strict legal action against the perpetrators.”
The TCPCR team has assured that the matter will not be brushed aside. The Commission is coordinating with law enforcement to initiate appropriate legal proceedings against the accused parents. Sources indicate that the relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act may be invoked, depending on the findings of the investigation.
Social workers, counselors, and support staff from the Department of Social Welfare and Social Education are also being roped in to provide psychological care and post-rescue rehabilitation. The girls may be shifted to a government-run child care facility once they are discharged from the hospital, depending on the recommendation of the CWC.
The case has sparked outrage and concern among local residents and child rights activists. Many have expressed gratitude to the Tripura Times for its timely reporting that led to urgent intervention.
“This is a prime example of how responsible journalism can create real social impact,” said one child rights activist based in Agartala. “These girls could have been lost to the system. But now, there is hope for justice and healing.”
The incident has also prompted a renewed call for stronger community-based child protection mechanisms in Tripura. Experts emphasize the importance of awareness campaigns in rural areas to educate parents and guardians about the legal implications of child marriage and the rights of minors under the Indian Constitution.
The TCPCR has promised to monitor the case closely and has urged citizens to come forward and report any suspected instances of child abuse or neglect. “Every child has the right to live a life of dignity and safety. We all share the responsibility of ensuring that right is protected,” Debbarma added.
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As the investigation continues, the state watches closely, hoping that this case will not just lead to justice for the two young girls, but also serve as a wake-up call to address the systemic issues surrounding child abuse and forced marriage in Tripura.
