Labour minister steps in to resolve ‘ostracism’ row

Berhampur: Labour minister Srikanta Sahu stepped in to resolve a case of alleged ostracism of two families triggered by inter-caste marriages in Kalamba village of Ganjam district.
Families of Arabind Pradhan and his cousin brother Binay Pradhan were allegedly ostracized from their village and the Rajashree Balasi Samaj community for getting married to girls outside their caste.
“I held discussion with local administration including the assistant block development officer, tehsildar, police and some members of the community and villagers and tried to resolve the issue amicably. We hope the matter will be resolved soon,” said Srikanta, who was visiting Polasara, his constituency, after taking charge of his ministry.
Earlier, the family members had lodged an FIR at Polasara police station and had also appraised district collector Vijay Amruta Kulange of the situation. During his visit, the minister met the families and assured them that the issue would be resolved. Arabind, an IAF jawan, and Binay, a jawan in the Indian Navy, had tied the knot with women from another caste last month against the community’s wishes. “Following the minister’s intervention, we hope the matter will be resolved soon,” said the brothers.
Jitendra Mallick, inspector in-charge of Polasara police station said a case has been registered based on the families’ complaint. “The matter is under investigation,” Mallick said. The villagers refused to comment on the issue.