The Allahabad High Court has instructed the police in Uttar Pradesh's Gautam Buddh Nagar and Ghaziabad to investigate claims that the Hindu group Arya Samaj is involved in facilitating illegal marriages.
This directive follows petitions from married couples seeking protection from their families. A preliminary inquiry by the police has revealed that at least 15 outfits, operating under the Arya Samaj banner, had been solemnising marriages in an unauthorised manner.
These groups, reportedly not registered with Arya Samaj's headquarters in Delhi, are accused of issuing invalid marriage certificates based on forged documents and inaccurate personal details. The marriages are alleged to have violated the Child Marriage Restraint Act and the Hindu Marriage Act, prompting concern over the legality of the unions.
The court expressed worry over the broader consequences of these unlawful marriages, suggesting links to issues such as human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and forced labour. Additionally, the court highlighted the potential emotional and psychological harm to children involved in these unions, particularly those whose education and stability were disrupted.
The investigation will extend to Arya Samaj's mandirs, societies, trusts, and other associated institutions. The High Court's order emphasised that the findings of the initial inquiry are not exhaustive, indicating that additional organisations may be involved in such activities. The police have ensured that all relevant institutions are thoroughly investigated.
The Gautam Buddh Nagar and Ghaziabad police commissioners have been directed to submit their reports before the next court hearing, scheduled for 26 September. The case includes a total of 42 related petitions, suggesting the widespread nature of the issue.
The court also noted that no Arya Samaj representative had appeared for previous hearings, despite notices being served, and has given the group a final opportunity to present its stance.