A scheduled caste family in Balia Pati village under Singla police limits of Balsore district has been socially boycotted for the last three years. The villagers have cut off their access to water, firewood, the village temple, local shops, markets, and agricultural fields after the family refused to marry off their minor daughter.
Three years ago, Prasant Bar’s daughter, then a Class IX student, was abducted by a young man from nearby Jambhirai. She was later rescued and returned home safely. After her return, the villagers and the abductor’s family pressured Prasant and his wife to agree to the marriage.
“She is a minor and wants to continue her education,” Prasant said firmly, refusing the demand.
Despite several meetings involving the families and villagers, Prasant did not change his decision. In response, a kangaroo court of villagers imposed a social boycott on the family. A video circulating on social media shows the village head announcing the boycott in the local market.
Even though the youth who abducted the girl is now married, the villagers continue to isolate Prasant’s family. The ongoing boycott has caused severe mental distress for the couple and their daughter, who is now in college.
On June 14, Prasant’s daughter filed a complaint at the Singla police station seeking justice for her family. However, no First Information Report (FIR) has been registered yet.
Inspector-in-charge Kamalini Tandi told TNIE, “We have received the complaint and are verifying the details. Action will be taken accordingly.”
