Administration steps in to end the economic and social boycott of ten Muslim families after public outcry, but villagers ask why those who called for penalties, threats and exclusion face no case
NEW DELHI/BALAGHAT – The economic and social boycott of Muslims in the Ghoti village of Madhya Pradesh’s Balaghat district has formally ended after intervention by the district administration, but deep unease remains among Muslim families who say justice is still missing.
The boycott began after a Hindu conference held on 27 January, where speakers allegedly made offensive remarks against Islam and Muslims. When members of the local Muslim community objected, village-level calls were issued to cut off all social and economic ties with ten Muslim families living in the area.
According to residents, Hindu families were warned that any contact with Muslims would lead to a fine of ₹5,000 and social exclusion. For nearly a week, Muslim families were denied basic interaction, work, and dignity.
A Muslim resident, Khairun Nisha, who was seen sitting outside her home with her husband after the boycott ended, said the week felt endless. “We were treated as if we did not belong to this village,” she said. “No one spoke to us, no one bought things from us. We only asked for respect.”
The issue gained attention after reports spread beyond the village, forcing the administration to act. Earlier, officials had denied knowledge of the boycott. After growing criticism, senior officers called both communities for talks and announced a settlement.
SDOP Lanji Omprakash said a peace committee meeting was held under the guidance of SDM Lanji Kamal Singh Sinsar, Tehsildar Sanjay Bhaskar, and senior police officers. “Considering the sensitivity of the matter, a meeting was organised with respected members of both communities,” he said. “All agreed to maintain peace and brotherhood.”
Officials said representatives from both sides accepted the resolution and assured cooperation. Police appealed to villagers to avoid rumours and tension.
Muslim community members said the announcement brought relief, but not closure. “The boycott ended only after pressure,” said a local elder. “Those who delivered hate speeches and pushed for our isolation are still free. No case, no warning. What stops this from happening again?”
Questions also remain on police silence over the speeches made during the Hindu conference. Residents asked whether any complaint was registered, whether statements were recorded, and whether any legal step was taken.
A young Muslim shopkeeper said, “For one week, our children asked why no one spoke to them. How do we answer that? Ending the boycott on paper does not heal this pain.”
Many fear that while daily life may return to normal, trust has been damaged. “We lived together for generations,” another resident said. “Now there is fear. Who will repair this break in hearts?”
The administration may have ended the boycott, but for Muslim families in Ghoti, the memory of isolation and the absence of justice continues to be an open wound.
