Just Rights for Children is a national movement spanning 400 districts across 28 states and union territories, working to ensure justice and protection for children. In Gujarat, DRISTI Don Bosco, Kapadvanj, and DISHA Don Bosco, Kawant, have taken the lead in raising awareness and mobilizing communities against child marriage.

The week-long campaign culminated in workshops that offered a safe space for survivors to share their painful experiences and inspire collective action. Nearly 150 participants attended across the three districts.

At DISHA Don Bosco, Kawant, 52 participants joined from Pavijetpur, Chhotaudepur, and Kawant blocks. In Anand district, 40 participants from 12 villages gathered at Kanya Shala, Pandoli, while Vadodara’s session at the APMC Hall, Desar, drew 57 participants from nine villages.

Each programme opened with a prayer and lamp-lighting, followed by input sessions from expert facilitators — Mr. Shailesh Parmar (Pandoli), Ms. Vyom Vasavada (Desar), and Mr. Dinesh Parmar (Kawant). They highlighted the harmful consequences of child marriage on education, health, and community well-being.

The most moving part came when survivors shared their stories, with more than three individuals at each centre bravely recounting the lifelong impact of early marriage. Their testimonies left participants deeply stirred, strengthening the resolve to oppose the practice.

In the afternoon, participants joined a virtual session with the national team of Just Rights for Children, linking Gujarat’s efforts to the broader campaign. All pledged to stand against child marriage, reinforcing a united front at both local and national levels.