Child marriages prevented in AP town

Srikalahasti, Andhra Pradesh, Mar 2 (UNI) Police today claimed to have prevented at least six child marriages in this temple town.

Police said here they conducted checks at lodges and function halls yesterday, the last day of the ''Mahashivaratri'' which is considered auspicious for marriages.

They also said 23 minor girls who were brought here for marriage were detained and sent for counselling.

Every year, a large number of children from nearby rural areas are married off by the parents on the last day of ''Mahashivaratri'' during which the ''Kalyanotsavam'' (celestial wedding) is performed at the temple.

However, this time strict vigil by police and Mahila Committees prevented the peformance of such marriages.

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