Maharashtra village bans ‘Maa-Behen’ abuses to promote respect | Fusion - WeRIndia

Efforts to promote respectful communication are gaining attention in a village in Maharashtra.

Residents of Kolgaon in Ahilyanagar district have taken a strong stand against abusive language that targets women.

The decision emerged during a gram sabha meeting after local women demanded action.

The demand surfaced during a felicitation event celebrating women achievers in the village.

Soon after, the community discussed the issue and passed a formal resolution banning “maa-behen gaali,” a common form of verbal abuse in daily arguments.

Under the new rule, anyone found using such abusive language will have to pay a fine of ₹500.

Villagers said these insults have become routine in casual disputes and conversations. Therefore, they believed a strict rule could discourage the habit.

Moreover, the gram panchayat has created a system for reporting violations. Residents who experience or witness such abuse can submit proof.

Digital evidence, such as audio recordings or video clips, will be accepted by the village authorities. If the complaint is verified, the offender must pay the ₹500 penalty.

Kolgaon has a population of around 9,000 people. Most families depend on farming for their livelihood. However, community leaders believe social values are as important as economic well-being.

Consequently, the rule aims to build a more respectful atmosphere in both families and society.

According to Puja Jagtap, a member of the village self-help group, abusive language is frequently used in everyday conversations.

In many cases, people insult women who are not even involved in the dispute. Therefore, she proposed the ban during the gram sabha meeting.

Her suggestion received strong support from women attending the gathering.

Soon after, several other residents backed the proposal. As a result, the resolution was approved and implemented by the gram panchayat.

Villagers have also encouraged families to help identify individuals who continue using such language.

Interestingly, Kolgaon has previously introduced several innovative community rules.

Last May, the village decided that children should study between 7 pm and 9 pm without television or mobile phones. Parents must ensure a quiet environment during this time.

Additionally, residents can report people who fail to keep their homes or shop surroundings clean. Anyone found neglecting cleanliness faces a ₹100 fine.

The latest decision has now attracted attention online.  Many social media users praised the initiative, saying it encourages respect toward women while discouraging abusive speech.

Image from Pxhere (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)

Image Published on February 09, 2017

Image Reference: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/656012