NHRC Addresses Odisha Government on Social Boycott of Family Following Inter-Caste Marriage

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken action against the Odisha government following reports of a social boycott. A woman's family in Rayagada district faced ostracism after her inter-caste marriage. Villagers allegedly demanded a purification ritual for the family's reacceptance, threatening an indefinite boycott if they refused, according to the NHRC's statement.

The NHRC has also addressed a separate incident involving a 17-year-old boy's death in a juvenile home in Delhi. The boy reportedly died from injuries inflicted by fellow inmates on June 17. He was taken to a hospital but was declared dead upon arrival. The NHRC has issued notices to the Delhi chief secretary and police commissioner, requesting a comprehensive report within three weeks.

Human Rights Concerns in Odisha

The NHRC has expressed concern over the reported social boycott in Odisha, highlighting potential human rights violations. The Commission has requested a detailed report from the Odisha chief secretary within two weeks. According to media reports from June 21, the woman's family complied with villagers' demands, leading to the tonsuring of 40 family members as part of the ritual.

In another case, the NHRC is investigating the deaths of three prisoners in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. These deaths occurred on June 15 and 16, with one male doctor and a female prisoner dying from illness in district jail, while another prisoner succumbed to a heart attack in Central Jail. The NHRC has sought reports from the director general of prisons and Varanasi police commissioner within two weeks.

Delhi Juvenile Home Incident

The NHRC's notice regarding the juvenile home incident in Delhi demands detailed information, including inquest and postmortem reports, as well as the magisterial inquiry findings. This step aims to address potential human rights violations related to the boy's death. The Commission emphasised that if true, these reports indicate serious human rights breaches.

For the Varanasi case, the NHRC expects comprehensive documentation, including health screenings and magisterial inquiry results. These measures are part of efforts to ensure accountability and transparency in addressing human rights concerns within state custody facilities.

The NHRC's actions reflect its commitment to addressing human rights issues across India. By seeking detailed reports and conducting inquiries, it aims to uphold justice and prevent further violations. These cases underscore ongoing challenges in ensuring human rights protection for all citizens.

With inputs from PTI