In a strong rebuke of tribal kangaroo courts, Odisha Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan condemned the public humiliation of two tribal couples in Rayagada and Koraput districts on July 14, 2025.
Labelling the acts as illegal and deeply immoral, Harichandan announced swift legal action against those responsible, emphasising the government’s commitment to ending such practices.
In Rayagada’s Kanjamajodi village, a couple faced degrading punishment for marrying within the same clan, a violation of local tribal customs. They were forced to wear wooden yokes, paraded, and made to plough fields before being exiled from the village. A similar incident unfolded in Koraput’s Peda Itiki village, where another couple, who had eloped to Andhra Pradesh, endured the same “purification ritual” on Sunday. Videos of both incidents went viral on social media, sparking widespread outrage and prompting the minister’s intervention.
Harichandan directed officials to initiate legal proceedings and ensure that such kangaroo courts are eradicated. “These acts are unacceptable, and strict action will be taken to prevent recurrence,” he stated, citing lack of awareness as a key factor. Rayagada police have detained several villagers based on video evidence, while Koraput’s local administration has launched a thorough investigation.
Despite public outcry, some villagers defended the actions, claiming adherence to traditional tribal rituals. The incidents highlight the clash between customary practices and legal frameworks, raising questions about tribal autonomy and human rights.
The Odisha government’s decisive response signals a broader push to enforce legal accountability and protect individual dignity. As investigations continue, the state aims to set a precedent against extrajudicial practices, ensuring justice for the humiliated couples and deterring future violations.
