Caste Conflict in Rayagada: NHRC Probes Social Boycott Threat

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken action by requesting a full report from the Odisha government about a social boycott threat against a tribal family in Rayagada district. This incident arose after a woman from the tribe married a man from a scheduled caste, breaking local social norms.

Traditionally, inter-caste marriages are taboo in this community, leading villagers to demand a purification ritual for the family's acceptance. A media report claimed that, under pressure, the family's male members had their heads tonsured, sparking NHRC's concern over human rights violations.

The video of the ritual went viral, prompting NHRC's suo motu action. Despite claims that the rituals were voluntary, the Commission is scrutinizing the situation to ensure such coercive measures are prevented, upholding human rights standards.

(With inputs from agencies.)