“Forced to Marry at 11, Abused for Years — Now I Just Want to Live With the Man I Love”: A Shocking Tale of Child Marriage and Defiance from Rajasthan

A disturbing case from Churu, Rajasthan, has brought to light the lifelong trauma caused by child marriage—and one woman’s fight to break free.

At just 11 years old, Neha (name changed) was married off to her deceased sister’s husband to care for his young child. What followed was 12 years of emotional and physical abuse. Her husband, an alcoholic, allegedly beat her regularly. Burdened with household duties and childcare, Neha says she was never treated with love or respect.

Her only solace came from her younger brother-in-law, Vinay (name changed), who listened to her and offered emotional support. Over time, their bond deepened into love.

On February 13, Neha ran away with Vinay, seeking a new beginning. The couple lived in different cities and sought refuge in temples to avoid threats from Neha’s in-laws, who are now allegedly trying to malign them and threatening their lives.

Now, Neha and Vinay have approached the Churu Superintendent of Police, pleading for protection. Neha claims she was forced into marriage as a child and never accepted her husband. She now wants to live with Vinay, the man she says truly understands and supports her.

“I’ve suffered enough. I want the right to choose my life now,” she says.