Berhampur: A police case has been registered against nine people in Munisipentha village of Odisha’s Ganjam district after allegations of social boycott of the family of Aska Additional Tehsildar Saudagar Behera over his inter-caste marriage.
Based on a complaint lodged by the OAS he officer’s father, Bijay Behera, the Chhatrapur police booked nine people. As per the complaint, family members of the officer were asked to leave a community wedding feast and were insulted in front of guests.
The complainant alleged that the incident reflected continued social pressure from certain sections of the community, which began after his son married outside the Kaibarta community. It was further alleged that the family was prevented from participating in community functions and faced restrictions that disrupted their social interactions in the village.
Following the complaint, police filed an FIR against nine members of the Kaibarta community. This apart, officials initiated talks with both the family and community representatives over the issue. Investigation is underway and police are examining statements of witnesses and other evidence.
Community leaders responded by clarifying that no formal decision to socially exclude the family had been taken. They acknowledged differences over inter-caste marriage, but denied allegations of ostracisation. The Kaibarta Samaj also announced plans for a wider discussion involving senior leaders, Mahasabha representatives, and the family to maintain social harmony in the village.
