Exemplary Leadership and Good Governance by Bhoobalan’s Leadership in Bagalkot

October 23, 2023

T Bhoobalan, an IAS Officer from karnataka, adopted a multi-pronged approach to tackle the sharp rise in child marriages in Bagalkot amid the pandemic, and rescued 176 kids in 1 year and shows Exemplary Leadership.
Inter-related Issue: He versed with the regional issues and found that child marriage is linked to other problems such as malnutrition, school dropouts, anaemia and maternal mortality.
Leadership Structure and Collaborative Efforts of His Task Force: Comprising the gram panchayat, Anganwadi workers, police officers, revenue officers and school teachers.
The Multi-Faceted Approach of the Committee to Prevent Child Marriage
- A Committee for Awareness: He formed a committee of various government officials and school teachers to spread awareness and educate the people about The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006.
- Anonymous Name to Come Out: While taking meetings, the team also assured those calling in to report these marriages that their names will remain anonymous. Several brides don’t report as they fear their parents will not forgive them.
- Helpline: The complainants were asked to either call the 1098 helpline or contact their designated local official directly.
- Rescual: The team was directed to work in unison to ensure swift rescue operations instead of waiting for the police to take action.
- Children for Themselves: A gram sabha committee consisting of only children was also formed to discuss the evils of child marriage, and what the kids can do if either they or their friends are a victim. They were also asked to spread the message at home.