BAKU, September 9
Authorities in Azerbaijan have investigated reports of an alleged engagement between a 20-year-old man and a 14-year-old girl in the village of Asadli, Sabirabad district.
Initial claims suggested that a betrothal ceremony had taken place, sparking widespread concern. However, the girl’s mother, Gular Farzaliyeva, denied this.
“My husband and the young man’s father were together at a gathering. While intoxicated, he said he wanted our families to be united. But my husband replied that our daughter is underage. After that, no one came to our house and no engagement took place,” Farzaliyeva told local media.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs confirmed that police acted immediately after receiving information. Both families were summoned to the local police station.
Investigators established that the alleged groom was 20 and the girl just 14. Officers conducted explanatory conversations, stressing that such situations are prohibited by law.
According to the ministry, however, the girl’s father, H. Farzaliyev, and the young man, E. Mammadli, disrupted police proceedings, shouting and interfering with official duties. Despite warnings, they continued their behavior. Administrative protocols were drawn up, and a court ordered both men detained for eight days.
The case highlights ongoing concerns in Azerbaijan about early marriages and the legal and social measures needed to prevent them.
