LUCKNOW: In an embarrassing attempt to extort money, a brother-sister pair married each other through the government-conducted community marriage program. The incident took place in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh. The Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) ordered an inquiry on a complaint lodged by the locals and the shady details surfaced.
The siblings badly wanted to avail the benefits of the 'Mukhya Mantri Samaj Vibha Yojana', a scheme for the economically disadvantaged. Under the scheme, the government will provide Rs 35,000 in the bride's bank account, Rs 10,000 worth of wedding accessories for the bride and groom and Rs 6,000 for wedding expenses.
According to the investigation report, it was found that two couples living in Sikandra Rao had remarried to dupe officials for money. The complaint also says that the municipal employees abetted in the crime. SDM Ved Singh Chauhan said that strict action will be taken against the culprits. On December 15, 2023, 217 couples married in the community marriage held in Hathras.