The Kishori Vikas program, by Seva Bharathi Telangana, has done a courageous act. The volunteers rescued a 16-year-old girl who was being forced to marry a 20-year-old guy. They not only saved a girl but also gave her a chance to restart her life with dignity.
The girl’s parents were already advised by the Child Welfare Department to not marry her at such a young age. But they put her at risk, went against her wishes, and also violated the law to conduct her wedding ceremony.
This was not all, the girl had gone through different traumatic incidents. The husband’s brother-in-law physically abused the girl for refusing to consummate the marriage. To escape these scenarios, the girl first fled to her friend’s place but failed to find any help.
Later, she gathered courage and contacted two volunteers from the Kishori Vikas team of Seva Bharathi – Manisha and Nirvahika. After understanding the case, they contacted Karuna Akka, who was the senior Samanvay karyakarta. She got into the case to help the girl.
Karuna Akka reported the case to the senior members, who connected with Vasu Anna. He is the State Organizing Secretary, who filed a complaint with the police. Also, he informed the Child Welfare Department to act urgently.
An emergency meeting was organized at the SR Nagar Child Welfare Department. It was attended by BJP Karyakarta Nagarah, Sri Latha Akka and Pariyaveshika Anuradha Akka from Akra Foundation, and Karuna Akka. All of them assured to keep the girl in a safe environment, not just for the time being but until her education is completed. Also, they made sure to not send her back to her home without informing the volunteers.
This was a big rescue done by Kishori Vikas team that shows Seva Bharathi protects girls from exploitation and ensures they have a bright future. Though the acts by various volunteers and people involved in the mission were inspiring, their commitment also deserves appreciation.
Karuna Akka has shown immense support even though she received constant threats from the girl’s family and relatives. Because she understands how important it is to save a girl.
Seva Bharathi Telangana strives to provide awareness and education to every girl child they come across so they have the strength to build their own future.
Kishori Vikas believes that change can become real only when young lives are protected and empowered.
