Date:25/01/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/01/25/stories/2006012521620500.htm

Andhra Pradesh - Hyderabad

Bravery award for gutsy Dalit girl

Special Correspondent

Susheela walked out of her child marriage to pursue studies Susheela walked out of her child marriage to pursue studies

WELL DONE: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh presenting the award to Chanigalla Susheela in New Delhi on Tuesday. - Photo: SHANKER CHAKRAVARTY

HYDERABAD: She not only defied societal norms but dared to walk out of her marriage. And she did all this to pursue her schooling. The grit and determination showed by 15-year-old Chanigalla Susheela, a Dalit girl, in fighting the practice of child marriage and in seeking annulment of her wedding earned her a National Bravery award, which was presented by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in New Delhi on Tuesday.

Ignoring her pleas, she was given in marriage to 22-year-old Narasimha from Prodattur in 2004. Then began her travails with her in-laws who were allegedly harassing her for dowry and forcing her to do farm work. Inspired by an educative campaign by M V Foundation, Susheela made it clear to her husband and in-laws that she preferred studies to marriage. She later returned home and lodged a complaint with the police.