State's Attempt to Break Up Inter-Caste Married Couples in Sarlahi Sparks Outrage

Sarlahi, Nepal - February 5, 2025

In a disturbing turn of events, the state's role in dismantling inter-caste marriages has come under scrutiny following a shocking incident in Sarlahi. Satyendra Kumar Ram (Chamar) of Barhathawa Municipality-4 and Neha Rauniyar of Barhathawa-5, who married across caste lines, have been subjected to egregious treatment allegedly orchestrated by state authorities.

The couple, supported in their marriage by involvement from high-ranking officials including the Home Minister and police personnel, faced severe harassment and legal threats after their inter-caste marriage. Reports indicate that Nepal Police, under directives allegedly from the Home Minister, apprehended the couple in Mumbai, India, threatening Satyendra with baseless charges ranging from child marriage to drug trafficking.

In response, Satyendra and Neha filed a complaint with the Human Rights Commission and sought relief through a writ of habeas corpus in the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court subsequently intervened, issuing a writ to reunite the couple. Meanwhile, preliminary investigations by the National Human Rights Commission revealed misuse of police authority under directives from influential figures close to political circles.

Neha's father, Surendra Rauniyar, a prominent businessman with ties to a leading Congress leader, reportedly sought to dissolve the marriage through coercive means involving law enforcement. This incident underscores a troubling trend where authorities tasked with upholding justice are implicated in perpetuating caste-based discrimination and intimidation tactics.

Satyendra and Neha's relationship dates back to their school days when they defied societal norms and culminated in their marriage in Kapilvastu District Court after fleeing multiple attempts of separation. Despite registering their marriage legally, they faced repeated arrests and legal harassment, highlighting systemic failures in protecting inter-caste unions.

The case has sparked public outrage and calls for accountability, with advocates demanding swift action against those abusing state power to enforce caste-based discrimination. The Human Rights Commission continues its investigation into the matter, promising to uncover the truth behind the state's role in disrupting the lives of Satyendra and Neha.