Dozens of minors got married on Akha Teej, despite the 'strictness' of the district administration and the police.Across the state numerous child marriages were reported. Just like the photograph along with this post that shows Ramu, 8, with his child bride, Rekha, weddings were solemnised through out Malwa, Bundelkhant, Baghelkhand and Gwalior-Chambal region.
Ramu alias Onkar is a Bhil. His 'wife' is a year older. She is nine. The couple was brought to the temple along with their family members and the baraat. Women danced and sang on the occasion as per the tradition of Malwa.
On Askshay Tritiya, children are annually married in rural parts of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. Though the efforts of governments and NGOs have shown a decline, but still the practice is prevalent and often marriages are held secretly.
