Strengthening Community Action Against Child Marriage

On 29th August 2025, Kolkata Mary Ward Social Centre (KMWSC) participated in the Block Level Child Protection Committee (BLCPC) meeting held at the Swarupnagar BDO Office. The meeting focused on the urgent and deeply concerning issue of child marriage, aiming to strengthen local strategies and foster collective responsibility for its prevention.

The meeting was attended by key government and community stakeholders, including the Block Development Officer (BDO), Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) of Swarupnagar, representatives from the Health Department, members of the Panchayat Samity, the Panchayat Pradhan, and partner NGOs working across the region. Together, these diverse actors created a strong forum for collaborative dialogue and action.

A total of 65 participants engaged in discussions that explored both the root causes of child marriage and the immediate actions needed to build a safety net for children in Swarupnagar. The dialogue emphasised the importance of coordinated intervention between administrative bodies, panchayats, community leaders, and civil society organisations to protect vulnerable children from exploitation and early marriage.

KMWSC, through its active participation, reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for child rights and ensuring that children enjoy the freedom to grow, learn, and dream without the burden of premature responsibilities. By bringing its grassroots experience to the table, KMWSC contributed valuable insights on how awareness building, community vigilance, and responsive systems can together create meaningful change.

The meeting concluded with a shared resolution to intensify collective efforts and monitoring at the community level, making Swarupnagar a stronger and safer space for children.

“Together for childhood — ending child marriage, securing brighter futures.”

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