Child bride, 5, and 9-year-old groom rescued at the alter by social services

 A five year old child bride and her nine-year-old groom were rescued by welfare officials as they stood at the altar.

The shocking marriage  was taking place in Mambapur, Telangana state, central India, as part of a reported caste ritual.

India's Child Welfare Department raided the ceremony and carried the sobbing girl into protective custody.


Children's rights activist Achyuta Rao from charity Balala Hakkula Sangham  told Studio News that the parents were conducting the marriage because someone had died recently in the household

He said: "As per their custom, no relative will enter their house after the death of a family member, unless they perform an 'auspicious event' and celebrate it."

Police are said to have counselled the parents.