In a case that has shocked Telangana, a 13-year-old Class 8 student was married off to a 40-year-old man, prompting swift legal action. The ceremony took place on July 5 in Nandigama mandal, Ranga Reddy district and was arranged by the girl’s mother, resulting in authorities charging all involved parties.

The girl’s school principal alerted police, triggering a rescue operation. According to officials, charges include the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, with FIRs lodged against the man, his wife, the priest, and a mediator who organized the illegal ceremony.

Child rights groups such as Balala Hakkula Sangham have frequently highlighted the prevalence of such incidents in Telangana, urging stronger enforcement of anti–child marriage laws and proactive intervention.

The girl is now under the care of child welfare authorities, and the police investigation is ongoing as the region grapples with persistent child marriage challenges.