HT Correspondent
HOJAI, Feb 4: Assam’s campaign against child marriage gained further momentum in Hojai district with the launch of the Child Marriage-Free Chariot Rally on Tuesday, reinforcing the state government’s zero-tolerance policy under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma.
The rally was inaugurated by Hojai District Commissioner Vidut Vikas Bhagwati following the nationwide 100-day awareness campaign for a “Child Marriage-Free India” launched on December 4, 2025, by Union Minister for Women and Child Development Annapurna Devi. The programme was organised by Koshi Lok Manch and “Access to Justice for All” with the support of the Assam State Commission for Protection of Child Rights and the district administration.
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Addressing officials, staff members and local residents, the district commissioner described child marriage as a grave social evil. “Child marriage is not just a social issue, it is a curse on humanity. Ending this practice is a top priority of our Chief Minister and the central government is equally committed to this cause,” Bhagwati said.
He explained that the main objective of the chariot rally is to reach child marriage-prone areas across Hojai district and spread awareness about children’s rights, justice and safety. Emphasising the role of public participation, the DC said no government scheme could succeed without people’s support. “This chariot will touch hearts, make people aware of the dangers of child marriage and empower society to take a stand against it,” he added.
Several dignitaries were present at the event, including Koshi Lok Manch executive director Rishikant, additional deputy commissioner Bonny Inam Sadab, assistant commissioner Bibhuti Handique, Rubu Bora, Hojai coordinator Barbi Barik, officials of the District Child Protection Unit and others.
The rally is expected to play a key role in strengthening awareness at the grassroots level and supporting Assam’s ongoing efforts to make the state free from child marriage.
