In a disturbing case of alleged caste-based discrimination, eight families in the Padmapur area of Rayagada district have reportedly been socially boycotted after their children married outside their caste, even as the government has mounted efforts to promote social integration.

The Odisha government has introduced a new scheme providing financial assistance of Rs 2.5 lakh to eligible newlywed couples who break caste barriers.

However, in Padampur, the affected families claim that members of the local Tailika community have declared them outcasts for permitting inter-caste marriages within their households. According to these families, they have been prohibited from participating in social gatherings, village feasts, and family ceremonies for several days.

Community members were also allegedly warned against maintaining any form of relationship or communication with them. The victims assert that this social, mental, and economic harassment has instilled fear and insecurity.

While many families reportedly chose to remain silent for fear of further restrictions, eight families have now approached the administration seeking justice. On Monday, members of the affected families submitted a memorandum to Additional District Magistrate Naveen Chandra Nayak during the grievance cell meeting at Gudari block. They sought protection and demanded action to ensure they could live with dignity.