Indore (Madhya Pradesh): While the administration succeeded in halting several child marriages recently, families are now facing a new ordeal — getting their booking money back.
Despite early promises, the authorities have failed to ensure refund of advance payments made for venues, bands, caterers and other wedding services.
During Akshaya Tritiya and earlier, child marriages were stopped across the district by the women and child development department.
Officials had assured families that all pre-booked expenses would be reimbursed. Notices were sent to vendors, but action stalled and families many of them poor are now making repeated visits for their dues.
Many had taken loans to arrange weddings and now face financial distress. Officials who made the promises are reportedly unavailable, leaving families helpless. Some are even afraid to come forward, fearing backlash.
The crackdown on child marriage was hailed as a success, but for these families, it has turned into a financial nightmare. Notices served to vendors remain mere formalities with no follow-up action.
District women and child development officer Ramniwas Budholiya responded, "Refund action was initiated. I will look into the remaining cases."
