Shocking incident: Why did UP siblings marry each other under the mass marriage scheme?

A shocking incident has emerged from Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, where a brother and sister reportedly married each other, aalong with several other married couples who tied the knot again to fraudulently claim government benefits intended for newly married couples under the mass marriage scheme for economically weaker sections of society. The scam came to light after complaints from local residents prompted action from the local Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), who ordered an investigation into the matter.

The fraudulent scheme was designed to exploit the Mukhyamantri Samuhik Vivah Yojana, which provides financial assistance to newly married couples. Under this program, the bride receives ₹35,000 directly in her bank account, along with essential goods worth ₹10,000 for the couple, and an additional ₹6,000 to cover the costs of the marriage ceremony.

Reports indicate that two married couples residing in Sikandrarao were remarried under this scheme, raising suspicions about the legitimacy of their marriages. The case of a brother and sister marrying each other has also been reported, further complicating the situation. After local residents brought these issues to the attention of SDM Ved Singh Chauhan, he assured that a thorough investigation would be conducted, followed by appropriate action against those found guilty.

According to media reports, a municipal employee is believed to have facilitated these fake marriages to obtain financial benefits from the community marriage scheme. This incident has raised serious concerns about the integrity of government welfare programs and the exploitation of such initiatives for personal gain.

Notably, a mass marriage event was organized in Hathras on December 15, 2023, during which 217 couples were married. The authorities are now focusing on ensuring that such fraudulent activities do not undermine the genuine efforts aimed at supporting economically disadvantaged families.

What is the mass marriage scheme and its benefits?

To promote communal and social harmony, the state government launched the Mass Wedding Scheme in October 2017. This initiative aims to conduct wedding ceremonies according to the rituals practiced by various communities and religions while also addressing the issue of unnecessary extravagance in weddings. The scheme is available to families of all communities with an annual income of ₹2,00,000 from all sources.

Under this scheme, ₹35,000 is deposited into the bride’s bank account to help establish a household. Additionally, couples receive ₹10,000 worth of essential items for the wedding, such as apparel, ornaments, and utensils. Furthermore, there is a provision of ₹6,000 to cover expenses for each marriage. In total, this means that each marriage benefits from an amount of ₹51,000, providing significant financial support for families participating in the program.

To organize these mass weddings, a minimum of 10 couples must register, and the ceremonies take place at the urban body level, including the Nagar Panchayat, Municipal Committee, Municipal Corporation, Area Panchayat, and Zila Panchayat. This scheme not only assists families financially but also aims to foster a sense of community and solidarity during wedding celebrations.

Is education the key to preventing fraudulent marriages in our country?

This incident in Hathras is a troubling reflection of what is happening in our country. People are resorting to fake marriages for money, even going as far as a brother marrying his sister. This behavior highlights the desperate situation faced by some individuals who, lacking education, turn to fraudulent schemes in hopes of financial gain. It serves as a stark reminder of how crucial education is for understanding societal values and laws. By providing proper education, we can empower people to make informed decisions and discourage such illegal activities that exploit government schemes designed to help the needy.

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