A bench of the Supreme Court (Justices Ujjal Bhuyan and Manmohan) on 18 June 2025 granted immediate police protection to a 16-year-old girl from Bihar who fled a forced child marriage orchestrated to clear her parents’ debts. Alongside her friend—who aided her escape and now faces kidnapping allegations—the girl reached the Court via a writ petition under Article 32, seeking annulment under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, and relief from reported physical abuse by her 33‑year‑old husband, a contractor.

The apex court directed the Director General of Police, Bihar, and the Commissioner of Police, Delhi, to ensure “full security” for both the minor and her friend, maintain regular contact, and offer assistance in emergencies. The police have been asked to submit a sealed status report at the next hearing, with the matter scheduled for 15 July 2025.

Another notable development: the Calcutta High Court has ordered the prospective reinstatement of MGNREGA in West Bengal, effective 1 August 2025, following a nearly three-year suspension amid allegations of fund misuse. The bench emphasized that MGNREGA can’t remain frozen indefinitely and urged future disbursements despite ongoing investigations.

sources