In a bold move to preserve harmony, the residents of Medki village in Chhattisgarh’s Balod district have issued a unique decree: no more gossiping. Violators face a steep fine of Rs 5,001. This decision, unanimously approved in a village assembly, targets those who spread rumors and incite conflicts among neighbors.
The quaint village of Medki, located just 4 km from Balod town, has long prided itself on communal unity. But petty squabbles fueled by idle talk and backbiting have started eroding this fabric. Frustrated by recurring fights sparked over trivial matters, the villagers gathered on a crisp Thursday morning at 8 AM for a panchayat meeting. With active participation from all sections of the community, they resolved to impose a hefty penalty on ‘chuglibazi’ – the local term for malicious gossip.
Under the new rule, anyone caught publicly or privately twisting words to provoke discord will be fined Rs 5,001. This isn’t the first time Medki has taken such proactive steps. Five years ago, the same community cracked down on alcohol abuse during social and religious feasts, slapping a Rs 5,001 fine on those arriving intoxicated. That measure followed earlier actions against liquor sellers, who faced Rs 10,000 penalties, with informants rewarded Rs 1,000.
Village sarpanch Manjulata Pars Sahu, alongside elders like Dhanraj Sahu, Manohar Sahu, and Horilal Sahu, explained the rationale. ‘Small misunderstandings escalate when gossipmongers intervene, often under the influence of alcohol,’ Sahu noted. ‘Nasty comments lead to brawls, poisoning our peaceful atmosphere.’ The leaders emphasized that these fines aim to foster mutual respect and curb animosity.
This grassroots initiative highlights a growing trend in rural India, where communities are reclaiming control over social vices through self-imposed regulations. As Medki sets an example, other villages might follow suit, proving that unity starts at home. The enforcement mechanism remains community-driven, relying on collective vigilance to maintain the village’s serene environment.