Odisha: Family Forced to Shave Heads in ‘Purification’ Ritual After Inter-Caste Marriage

Rayagada, Odisha, June 25, 2025 : Around 40 members of a woman’s family in Baiganaguda village, under Kashipur block of Rayagada district, were forced to shave their heads as part of a “purification” ritual after she married a man from a different caste.

The woman, belonging to a Scheduled Tribe (ST), had recently wed a man from a Scheduled Caste (SC) from a neighbouring village. Following the inter-caste marriage, the woman’s family faced ostracism from the villagers.

According to reports, the villagers demanded that the family undergo a purification ritual to be accepted back into the community. They threatened an indefinite social boycott if the family refused to comply. Under mounting pressure, the family reportedly conducted an animal sacrifice before a local deity and participated in a mass head-shaving ceremony.

A video of the incident, showing the family members seated in a field with shaved heads, has since gone viral on social media, triggering widespread outrage and condemnation.

In response, Kashipur Block Development Officer (BDO) Vijay Soy has ordered a probe into the incident. A block-level official has been dispatched to Baiganaguda village, and the local administration has assured that appropriate action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation.

The incident has raised concerns over the continued prevalence of caste-based discrimination and social coercion in parts of rural India.

Officials have not yet confirmed whether criminal proceedings will be initiated against those who allegedly coerced the family into performing the ritual. Authorities say they are currently collecting statements from affected family members and local residents.

The case comes amid ongoing national conversations around caste-based practices, social exclusion, and the need for stronger protections for marginalised communities.

Source : The Siasat Daily