Rayagada: In a disturbing development, eight families in Padmapur area of Rayagada district in Odisha have alleged that they are facing social boycott after their young members married outside their caste.
The affected families submitted a petition before the grievance cell of the district administration on Monday, seeking intervention and justice.
The shocking development comes to light even though the government has been making efforts to promote social integration. The state government has come up with a new scheme under which financial assistance of Rs 2.5 lakh is extended to eligible newlywed couples who break the caste barriers.
The affected families allege that sections of the local Tailika community declared them outcasts for allowing inter-caste marriages in their households. The families claimed that they have been barred from participating in social gatherings, village feasts and family functions. They were also allegedly warned against maintaining any communication with them. The victims claimed that the social, mental and economic harassment has created fear and insecurity.
While several families reportedly remained silent fearing further restrictions, members belonging to eight families have now approached the administration seeking justice. They submitted a memorandum to additional district magistrate Naveen Chandra Nayak during the grievance cell meeting at Gudari block. They sought protection and demanded action to ensure they could live with dignity.
Meanwhile, Padmapur Block Tailika Vaishya Samaj president Saura Sahu defended the community’s move, stating that the decision was taken in accordance with traditional norms after consultations with office bearers and members of the organisation. He also claimed that the federation had given its consent for the action.
Gunupur sub-collector Dudhal Abhishek Dillip said the petition was being treated seriously and a probe has already been initiated.
