Couple Faces Humiliation for Marrying Within Clan: Shocking 'Plough Justice' Incident

Disturbing Punishment in Narayanpatna

In a shocking incident from Peda Itiki village in the Narayanpatna block, a couple faced severe humiliation after they married within their clan. Allegedly, a kangaroo court imposed a degrading punishment, forcing them to plough the village road while tied to a wooden yoke. This incident gained attention after a video surfaced online, following a similar case in the nearby Rayagada district.

The couple, aged 18 and 21, had been in a relationship for about five years. They belong to the same clan and are regarded as cousins according to tribal customs. Defying societal expectations, they eloped and wed.

Upon their return to the village, family members convinced them to come back, promising acceptance of their marriage. However, village elders deemed their union invalid due to their familial ties and mandated a traditional punishment known as ‘Balada Danda’ or plough justice. They were made to till the village road, and afterward, a ritual involving coconut water was performed for their 'purification.' The local police have initiated an investigation into this incident, as confirmed by Narayanpatna police station IIC Pramod Kumar Nayak.