While child marriage in Manipur is not as widespread as in other states, significant cases still occur, and the public must remain aware of the Prevention of Child Marriage Act. This was emphasized by Keisham Pradipkumar, Chairperson of the Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MCPCR), during a One-Day State-Level Sensitization cum Consultation Workshop on Preventing Child Marriage in Manipur. The event, held at the Manipur Press Club, was organized by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) in collaboration with MCPCR.

Pradipkumar noted that child marriage in Manipur differs in nature from other states. While child marriages elsewhere often involve children far below the legal marriage age, in Manipur, the issue typically concerns early marriages involving girls under 18 and boys under 21. These marriages often occur due to elopement, which can lead to legal repercussions under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act if complaints are filed.

Thoubal district leads in reported early marriage cases, followed by Imphal West and Bishnupur. Pradipkumar stressed that, in the current situation, with around 25,000 children in relief camps, awareness campaigns about the legal and health risks of child marriage are critical.

“Education is one of the most effective ways to prevent child marriage,” Pradipkumar remarked. He warned that early marriages often affect the health of young mothers and lead to crises due to their emotional and physical immaturity. The workshop’s objective is to raise public awareness and encourage community participation in curbing child marriage across Manipur.