Shocking Punishment: Tribal Couple Forced to Plough Field for Marrying Against Tradition

In a shocking incident from Rayagada, Odisha, a tribal couple faced public humiliation as they were forced to plough a field with a yoke for marrying against community norms. The couple's marriage, which involved a taboo relationship, led to a kangaroo court's decision to punish them in front of villagers. This disturbing act has raised serious concerns about human rights and community practices. Authorities are set to investigate the incident, promising legal action against those responsible. Read on to learn more about this troubling event and its implications.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 11, 2025, 21:11 IST

Public Punishment in Odisha's Rayagada District

Rayagada: In a disturbing incident reported from Rayagada district in Odisha, a tribal couple was allegedly subjected to a humiliating punishment by being made to plough a field while wearing a yoke, as a consequence of their marriage, which was deemed against community customs, officials revealed on Friday.

The incident reportedly occurred on Wednesday in Kanjamajodi village, falling under the jurisdiction of Kalyansinghpur police.

A video that surfaced on social media on Friday depicts the couple being paraded like oxen, forced to work the field in front of local villagers and community leaders.

However, the authenticity of this video has not been independently verified.

Villagers indicated that the couple, who married in defiance of traditional tribal practices, were subjected to a public 'purification' ceremony.

The young man allegedly married his paternal aunt, a union considered taboo due to their familial ties.

Upon discovering the relationship, a makeshift court of village elders convened and mandated the punishment, which was executed publicly.

Following the 'rituals', community leaders reportedly instructed the couple to leave the village immediately, and their current location remains unknown.

Village head Biswanath Kurshika stated, "We conducted the 'purification' rituals to absolve them of the sin incurred by marrying within their bloodline."

He further claimed that failure to perform these rituals could result in crop failures due to anticipated lack of rainfall.

Another villager, Rajendra Kurshika, remarked, "The rituals were in line with our traditions, and the couple has been separated."

Describing the act as 'inhuman', Rayagada sub-collector Ramesh Kumar Jena announced plans to visit the village on Saturday to investigate the matter.

"Those found responsible during the inquiry will face legal consequences," Jena affirmed.