How West Bengal's Priyanka Is Freeing Girls From Child Marriage System

In the remote village of Pakhirala on Sagar Island, a young woman is challenging the deep-rooted social norm of child marriage. Priyanka Mondal, a second-year student and the president of the local Children’s Council, is making a remarkable difference in her community. Driven by a vision for a better future, Priyanka has become a beacon of hope for many young girls who dream of an education, a career, and a life free from early marriage.

Priyanka’s story is one of determination, courage, and the power of youth leadership. Coming from a humble background, with a father who is an auto-rickshaw driver and a mother who works as an ASHA worker, Priyanka has always understood the value of education. As a member of the Children’s Council, she has taken it upon herself to raise awareness about the dangers of child marriage and advocate for the rights of young girls.

Fighting Child Marriage

Child marriage remains a significant issue in many parts of India, including the Sundarbans, where girls are often married off before they are old enough to make their own decisions. The impact of early marriage is far-reaching—young girls are deprived of education, forced into early motherhood, and face countless hardships. But Priyanka is determined to change that.

One of Priyanka’s most impactful moments came when she intervened to stop the child marriage of her 16-year-old neighbour, Sampa Mondal. When Sampa’s father planned to marry her off, Priyanka stepped in. Through careful counselling, Priyanka spoke to Sampa’s parents about the physical, emotional, and legal consequences of child marriage, and helped them understand the importance of keeping Sampa in school. Thanks to Priyanka’s efforts, Sampa’s marriage was called off, and she was able to return to her studies.

Priyanka’s success in saving her neighbour from child marriage has inspired many in her community to take action. Through the Children’s Council, she is creating a movement where children and families are becoming more aware of their rights and the importance of education.

As Priyanka says, “Every child deserves the chance to dream freely and live without fear.”

Her story is a powerful reminder that change often begins with a single voice, one that refuses to accept the status quo.

On this National Girl Child Day, let us all be inspired by Priyanka’s journey and continue to work towards a future where every girl has the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive—free from the constraints of child marriage.

Bal Raksha Bharat, in collaboration with government schemes, is rigorously addressing violence and gender bias through community-level awareness campaigns and supports local government to empower girls in availing of the relevant schemes and services. These collaborative measures, aligned with government priorities, aim to ensure that every girl has the opportunity to thrive and achieve her potential. 

Together, we can make a difference.

This article was written by Pradeep Kumar Mishra, Head- Program Implementation, Bal Raksha Bharat.