In Chaibasa, Jharkhand, a young man and woman from the 'Ho' tribe were excommunicated from society for life for marrying within the same gotra (clan). The Gram Sabha (village council) unanimously pronounced this strict decision, considering the violation of tradition a sin.
Chaibasa: A shocking case has emerged from the Chaibasa district of Jharkhand, where the Gram Sabha of the 'Ho' tribe excommunicated a young man and woman from society for life for marrying within the same gotra. The Gram Sabha declared this marriage a "sin," stating that it violated tradition and religious rules. This decision has sparked a new debate regarding traditional customs and individual freedom.
Gram Sabha Punishes for Breaking Tradition
This incident occurred in the Jagannathpur block of Chaibasa, where the decision was taken at a Gram Sabha meeting held on Sunday, October 26. The meeting was attended by the village head, religious leaders, members of both families, and senior community members.
It was unanimously decided in the meeting that marrying within the same gotra is against the religious traditions of the 'Ho' tribe, and therefore, both individuals should be expelled from society. This decision was announced publicly, leading to widespread discussion about the incident in the village and surrounding areas.
Widespread Opposition to the Marriage in Society
According to information, the young man hails from Lakhipai village in Chaibasa, while the young woman is from Padampur village in Tonto block. Both had known each other for some time and married without regard for social rules.
The community became aware of this marriage when the young woman became pregnant. Subsequently, several senior community members became agitated, and the matter was brought before the Gram Sabha. Among the 'Ho' tribe, people of the same gotra are considered siblings, and therefore, such a marriage is socially prohibited.
Mahasabha Reacts to Gram Sabha's Decision
Gabbar Singh Hembram, General Secretary of the 'Ho' Samaj Yuva Mahasabha (Youth Grand Assembly), stated that while the organization accepts the Gram Sabha's decision, it clarifies that it does not support any form of violence or social oppression.
He further explained that the Mahasabha works to protect the traditional values of society while also raising awareness among youth about law, education, and social consciousness. Hembram added that in modern times, such cases need to be handled sensitively to maintain a balance between tradition and individual rights.
