Editor’s Note
This report details a community meeting in Rajasthan where leaders resolved to strictly enforce traditional rules, including potential consequences for members who violate them. The decision highlights ongoing tensions between social reform and the preservation of established customs within some communities.
A meeting of the Jat community from the Badisadri, Bhadesar, and Dungla blocks in the Badisadri area of Chittorgarh was held. In a move towards social reform, a consensus was reached to strictly enforce old traditions and discipline.
The meeting was chaired by Shankar Lal Jat. The community unanimously decided that the social rules made earlier would remain in force as they are.
The community, putting a leash on modern glitz and extravagance, made it clear that there will be a complete ban on playing DJ and band music at weddings. Events like pre-wedding shoots and stage blessing ceremonies have been deemed against social decorum. A ban has also been imposed on ostentatious ‘Bindoli’ processions. The community has identified families who have violated these rules in the past. No person from the community will now participate in any function at their homes.
During the social reform program, a case of mutual dispute between two families also came to light. The executive committee seriously listened to both sides and mediated to bring about a reconciliation, enabling the two broken homes to be reunited.