The family of an Additional Tehsildar in Odisha's Ganjam district was allegedly ostracised by members of the Kaibarta community after an inter-caste marriage, following which Chhatrapur police registered a case based on their complaint.

According to the complaint, the family of Aska Additional Tehsildar Saudagar Behera faced restrictions and humiliation after he married outside the caste. 

The complainant alleged that the community not only opposed the marriage but also prevented the family from participating in a wedding feast, where they were reportedly asked to leave. The family resides in Munisipentha village under Chhatrapur police limits.

The father of the officer, Bijay Behera, said that his son’s marriage led to differences with members of their community. 

“My son married in another caste and, for that, I am not allowed to associate with our community. People from our community asked me to sever ties with my son and daughter-in-law, only then will they accept me. I told them that I will not sever ties with anyone, but I will accept whatever decision the community takes. They have not ostracised me,” he said.

The complaint states that the Kaibarta community imposed social restrictions, leading to the registration of a case. Following this, a discussion was held at Chhatrapur police station between representatives of the community and the family, though no resolution was reached. It was learnt that further discussions will take place in the presence of community members of the Kaibarta Samaj Mahasabha.

Kaibarta Community Refutes Allegations

However, the Kaibarta community denied the allegation of ostracisation. A representative of the Kaibarta Samaj said the accusations did not hold ground. 

“These allegations are baseless and false. Though I was not present at the gathering that day, I have heard from others that he was asked to leave. Another point is that he was not invited; he had gone there on his own. Compromise will be done according to our community rules,” the representative stated.

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No statement could be received from the police regarding the matter.