Nineteen-year-old Rinku Thakur of Chhapkaiya in Birgunj-2 left her house on Wednesday morning after her parents reportedly forced her to marry against her wish. Her father Nagendra had arranged her marriage with a man from Ghodsahan in India.

Rinku, who works as a news reader at a local radio station, said her father had reportedly offered Rs 130,000 as a dowry to the boy’s family.

“I just don’t wish to get married right now. I didn’t refuse to marry because I am having an affair,” she said.

Rinku also had filed applications at the local office of Maiti Nepal Office, a women and child rights organisation, and local police units, requesting them to convince her parents not to marry her off against her wish.  

Superintendent of Police Rajubabu Shrestha said they have even discussed with the girl’s parents to settle the problem at the police office.

“Nagendra did not take our advice. Instead, he locked Rinku in her room for four days,” said Shrestha.

Rinku is currently taking shelter at the office of Maiti Nepal. Coordinator of Maiti Nepal Sangita Puri lauded Rinku’s move as courageous and exemplary for many young girls and women who are in a similar situation.

Rinku’s father Nagendra said he was hurt by his daughter’s decision.

“She did not understand us. We can only hope that her life will become successful,” he said.