Special Poxxo Court Issues Harsh Penalty for Underage Forced Wedding

In a decisive move against child exploitation, Aurangabad’s Special Poxxo Court sentenced Gunjan Singh Bandae to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment for forcibly marrying a minor girl. The ceremony took place at the well‑known Devkund temple, where the perpetrator compelled the girl to accept sindoor despite her clear opposition.

The minor had traveled to RafiGanj on 28 June 2025 for a medical check‑up. According to police reports, the accused persuaded her to accompany him to his residence and later escorted her to the temple the following day. Following the illegal nuptials, the girl contacted her father, prompting her family to alert authorities.

Law enforcement swiftly rescued the child and filed an FIR. The trial featured testimonies from eight witnesses, reinforcing the prosecution’s narrative. The court applied Section 4(2) of the Poxxo Act and Section 65(1) of the Bihar Navikaran Security Act, imposing a fine of INR 30,000 along with the 20‑year jail term. An additional seven‑year sentence with a INR 20,000 fine was ordered under Section 87 of the BNS Act, with both terms to be served concurrently.

The court also directed the district legal services authority to ensure the victim receives INR 1 lakh under the Bihar Victim Compensation Scheme‑2019. This ruling signals a firm commitment to safeguarding minor’s rights and deterring any future attempts at forced marriage.