Overview

• The 13-year-old was rescued after confiding in her school teacher, who alerted tahsildar and police to the illegal union.
• Authorities have charged five individuals—including the mother, the 40-year-old groom, the mediator, the officiating priest and the groom’s wife—under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act.
• Investigators are examining whether the girl was forced into a sexual relationship, which could prompt additional POCSO charges against Srinivas Goud.
• The mother arranged the May 28 temple ceremony in Ranga Reddy district by recruiting a local house owner as mediator.
• The case highlights the pivotal role of educators and child protection agencies in enforcing anti-child marriage laws and providing rehabilitation.