Assam child marriage crackdown: 80 arrested in Dhubri, including 54 husbands

In Assam’s Dhubri district, the latest child marriage crackdown has led to 80 arrests, including 54 husbands, and the police say the operation is far from over. Investigators are questioning those in custody and looking for others who may have arranged, facilitated or participated in underage marriages.

Dhubri Senior Superintendent of Police Debasish Borah told ANI on Wednesday, October 28, that 66 cases had been registered in the district. He said the arrest figures had changed as police verified information and expanded the investigation, adding that more arrests could follow.

The operation is part of Assam’s broader campaign against child marriage, a practice the state government has pledged to eliminate. But what do the latest numbers reveal, which laws are being invoked, and how does the crackdown fit into the state’s longer campaign?

Why have 80 people been arrested in Dhubri?

According to Borah, police have arrested 80 people in connection with 66 cases, including 54 husbands allegedly involved in child marriages. Those arrested have been taken into police custody for questioning, with investigators seeking information that could lead to further action.

The SSP also explained why earlier reports carried different arrest figures. A preliminary count of 67 was subsequently revised after verification, before the total rose to 80. The numbers reflect an ongoing investigation rather than a final count of everyone who may be implicated.

Police have invoked the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, where applicable. The precise charges depend on the facts of individual cases, and arrest does not by itself establish guilt.

How big is Assam’s statewide child marriage crackdown?

The Dhubri operation is part of a wider enforcement drive. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said in an update on October 27 that 524 people had been arrested and 441 cases registered across Assam as of 5 pm that day. Subsequent reports carried different, later totals as police operations continued.

Dhubri has emerged as a major focus of the latest round of arrests. India Today NE reported on October 27 that 64 people had been arrested in the district at that stage, with police action spanning several police station areas. The new district tally reported by Borah on Wednesday indicates that the operation continued to expand.

What laws does Assam use to prosecute child marriage?

The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act makes child marriages legally challengeable and provides penalties for adults who marry children, as well as people who promote, conduct or facilitate such unions. The POCSO Act may also apply when allegations involve sexual offences against children under 18.

The two laws serve different purposes: one addresses child marriage, while the other protects children from sexual abuse and exploitation. Investigators must establish the relevant facts and evidence for each case.

Why is Assam continuing its campaign against child marriage?

Assam began a series of intensified police operations in 2023, followed by further rounds of arrests, including a major drive in December 2024. The government has presented enforcement as part of its effort to deter underage marriages and hold those responsible accountable.

Arrests alone, however, cannot resolve every cause of child marriage. Access to education, community awareness, protection services and support for vulnerable families also matter if children are to remain safe and continue their schooling.

For now, Dhubri Police say their investigation is continuing. The next test will be whether the cases lead to evidence-based prosecutions—and whether sustained enforcement helps prevent more children from being pushed into marriage before adulthood.

(With inputs from ANI)