Overview

• Shakeel arranged his minor son’s marriage but began a clandestine relationship with the intended bride during matchmaking visits.
• When his wife and 15-year-old son confronted him, Shakeel assaulted them before marrying the woman and absconding with about Rs 2 lakh and 17 grams of gold.
• Family members allege that Shakeel’s own parents knew of the affair and helped facilitate the second marriage.
• A parallel April incident in Aligarh involved a mother eloping with her daughter’s groom and fleeing with over Rs 3.5 lakh in cash and jewellery valued at more than Rs 5 lakh.
• Rights advocates are urging reforms to protect women and children following the village’s decision to expel the couple.