A family from Sunderpahari village in Pakur district, Jharkhand, has accused the local panchayat of imposing a social ban on 15 families and slapping a fine of Rs 2 lakh for failing to attend a funeral. The complainant, Chudka Tudu, submitted a written complaint to Deputy Commissioner Megha Bhardwaj and Superintendent of Police Anudeep Singh on Monday, seeking justice and protection.
Wedding vs. Funeral
According to Chudka, his son Suraj's wedding was scheduled for May 12, and the entire family was occupied with marriage-related rituals and arrangements. During the same period, a villager passed away and was cremated on May 13. The family allegedly remained unaware of the death and could not attend the funeral due to the wedding ceremonies.
Chudka alleged that village head Sakal Tudu instigated villagers against the family over their absence from the funeral. Subsequently, meetings involving nearly 300 villagers were reportedly held on May 16 and 17, where a decision was taken to socially boycott the family.
Details of the Social Boycott
As per the complaint, the family was barred from drawing water from the village well, purchasing goods from local shops, interacting with villagers, and even engaging in employment activities within the village. The panchayat also allegedly imposed a penalty of Rs 2 lakh and threatened to seize their 45 bighas of agricultural land if the fine was not paid.
Police Response
Pakur SP Anudeep Singh confirmed that the matter has come to the notice of the police. "A special investigation team (SIT) has been formed under the leadership of Pakur SDPO Dayanand Azad to look into the matter. Further legal action will be taken based on the investigation," he added.
Authorities are now probing the allegations to ensure justice for the affected families.
