Alleged Social Boycott of Muslim Families Reported in Balaghat Village; Administration Orders Probe

Balaghat: A serious allegation of social boycott has surfaced from Ghoti-Nandora village in Balaghat district, where around 10 Muslim families claim they have been ostracised following a religious gathering held in January. District authorities have said they will investigate the matter.

The village falls under Lanji police station limits. According to affected families, their social and economic ties with the rest of the village were cut off after appeals were allegedly made during a Hindu conference to stop interactions and transactions with the Muslim community.

Daily life and livelihoods disrupted

Residents from the minority families say the boycott has made it difficult to meet even basic needs. They allege that local shops have refused to sell goods to them and service providers have stopped offering assistance.

The impact has extended to employment. Asif Hussain, who worked as a school bus driver, claims he has been prevented from working, while Sadiq Hussain, an electrician, says he has not received any job requests for the past week. Families say the sudden loss of income has put them under severe financial strain.

There are also allegations that a public announcement was made in the village formally declaring the boycott.

Political reaction and demand for inquiry

Former MLA Kishore Samrite has strongly criticised the incident, calling it a violation of constitutional rights. He alleged that inflammatory speeches were contributing to social division and demanded an independent investigation into the episode. He has called for police flag marches in the affected villages and a judicial probe into the matter.

Administration to verify claims

Following the reports, administrative officials said they are gathering facts and will take action if the allegations are proven. Authorities acknowledged that, if confirmed, the case would amount to serious social discrimination and a breach of law and order.

The situation has drawn attention to concerns about communal harmony in rural areas, with officials expected to submit a preliminary report after the inquiry.