More than 40 families in a village in Rajasthan's Dungarpur district are facing a social boycott after they failed to serve the traditional sweet dish 'ghee malpua' at a funeral feast, according to reports on June 26, 2026. The affected families alleged that since the boycott was imposed, they have been denied access to essential services, including water from the village handpump and the use of community facilities.
Background of the Dispute
The incident occurred in the village of Kherwara, where a family held a funeral feast for a deceased relative. The community expected the hosts to serve ghee malpua, a deep-fried pancake soaked in ghee and sugar syrup, as part of the ritual meal. However, the hosts opted for a simpler menu, leading to a confrontation with village elders who accused them of violating local customs.
Following the disagreement, a meeting of the village panchayat was convened, and the families were formally boycotted. The decision was communicated to the local grocery shop owners, barbers, and other service providers, who were instructed not to serve the affected families.
Impact on Daily Life
The social boycott has severely disrupted the daily lives of the affected families. They reported being unable to fetch water from the common handpump, purchase essentials from local shops, or avail themselves of the services of barbers and washermen. Children from these families have also been isolated in school, with classmates refusing to sit next to them or share food.
"We are being treated like outcasts for not serving a particular dish. Our children are suffering the most," said one affected resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity. The families have approached the district administration for intervention, fearing the boycott could escalate into violence.
Legal and Administrative Response
Dungarpur District Collector Rajendra Singh confirmed receiving a complaint and said that a team of officials has been sent to the village to investigate. "Such social boycotts are illegal and violate fundamental rights. We will ensure that the affected families are protected and the boycott is lifted," he stated.
The police have also registered a case under the Rajasthan Prohibition of Social Boycott Act, 2015, which criminalizes the practice of social ostracism. The act provides for imprisonment of up to three years and a fine for those found guilty of enforcing a boycott.
Broader Implications
This incident highlights the persistence of rigid social customs in rural Rajasthan, where funeral feasts often carry significant cultural weight. The practice of 'bhoj' or community feasts after a death is common in many parts of India, and deviations from tradition can invite severe social sanctions.
Social activists have condemned the boycott, calling it a regressive practice that undermines individual choice and dignity. "No one should be punished for choosing what to serve at a family event. The law must be strictly enforced to send a strong message," said activist Meena Sharma.
The case has also sparked a debate on the role of village panchayats in enforcing social norms, with some arguing that customary practices should not override constitutional rights.
