Siliguri, 05th February: Police arrested a man in Siliguri on charges of marrying a minor girl and impregnating her. The incident has been reported from an area under Matigara police station.
The accused has been identified as MD Chhotu (22). Despite ongoing awareness campaigns to prevent child marriage, police said such practices are still being carried out secretly in parts of society.
According to sources, the minor girl was brought to a hospital in Matigara for medical treatment. During examination, doctors grew suspicious and questioned the girl, following which the entire incident came to light. The hospital authorities then informed the police.
Based on the complaint, Matigara police took the minor into protective custody and recorded her statement. Acting on the medical report and the complaint lodged by the doctors, police arrested MD Chhotu under relevant sections of the POCSO Act for marrying a minor and maintaining a physical relationship that resulted in pregnancy.
The accused was produced before the Siliguri court on Thursday. Police said further investigation is underway.
Following the incident, police have appealed to the public to immediately inform authorities if they come across cases related to child marriage or similar social evils.