A Maharashtra village introduces a ₹500 fine for using ‘maa-behen’ slurs to discourage abusive language and promote respect for women
New Delhi: A village in Maharashtra has introduced a new rule to stop people from using abusive language that targets women. The Gram Panchayat of Kolgaon has decided to impose a ₹500 fine on anyone who uses insults involving someone’s “mother” or “sister,” commonly known as “maa-behen” slurs.
Village leaders say the rule aims to reduce verbal abuse and encourage people to speak respectfully about women. They believe such language should not be accepted in everyday conversations.
Rule discussed during women’s Gram Sabha
The idea for this rule came up during a special women’s meeting of the Gram Sabha held around International Women’s Day.
During the meeting, villagers discussed the need to protect women’s dignity and improve respect for them in daily life. A member of a local self-help group, Puja Jagtap, raised the issue that abusive words referring to mothers and sisters are commonly used during arguments.
She said these expressions insult women and make disrespectful behaviour seem normal in society. After discussing the issue, villagers agreed that strong action was needed to stop this habit.
The village council then passed a resolution to impose a financial penalty on people who use such abusive language.
₹500 fine with proof of evidence
Under the new rule, anyone who uses “maa-behen” slurs will have to pay a fine of ₹500.
However, the penalty will not be imposed without proof. The Gram Panchayat has decided that action will be taken only if there is digital evidence, such as an audio or video recording of the incident.
Once the evidence is submitted to the village council and verified, the person responsible will be asked to pay the fine. Officials say this rule will help prevent false complaints.
Villagers asked to report abusive language
Village authorities have encouraged residents to help enforce the rule. Women and even children have been asked to report incidents if they hear someone using abusive language in public or during arguments.
Local leaders believe that community participation is important for the success of the initiative. They hope that when people themselves start discouraging such behaviour, the habit of using abusive language will slowly decrease.
The money collected from fines will not be used for personal purposes. Instead, it will be used for development work and community projects in the village.
Kolgaon already follows several community rules
Kolgaon village has a population of around 9,000 people and most residents depend on agriculture for their livelihood.
The village is already known for introducing community rules to improve discipline and social behaviour.
One rule asks children to study at home between 7 pm and 9 pm. During this time, families are not allowed to use televisions or mobile phones so that students can focus on their studies.
Another rule focuses on cleanliness. Residents or shopkeepers who fail to keep their surroundings clean may have to pay a fine of ₹100 if someone provides photographic proof.
These rules show that the village administration actively works to encourage responsible behaviour in the community.
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CCTV cameras and awareness banners installed
To make sure the new rule is followed, the village council has installed CCTV cameras in several public places.
Officials have also put up banners and signboards across the village to inform people about the new regulation.
These steps are meant to remind residents that abusive language targeting women will not be tolerated.
Reports say that the rule has already been implemented in a few cases. Some people involved in arguments admitted their mistake and paid the fine after evidence was shown.
In one incident, even a member of the village council had to pay the penalty, showing that the rule applies to everyone equally.
Rule aims to change social behaviour
Village leaders say the purpose of the rule is not just to collect fines but to change people’s thinking.
Many abusive expressions in everyday language refer to women in disrespectful ways, especially mothers and sisters. People often use such words casually during arguments without realising their impact.
By introducing the penalty, the village hopes to challenge this habit and encourage people to speak more respectfully.
Some residents say they have already noticed a change, as people are becoming more careful about the words they use.
Initiative encourages respect for women
The decision taken by Kolgaon village shows how local communities can take action to address social issues on their own.
Instead of waiting for national laws or government programmes, villagers used the Gram Sabha to introduce a rule that promotes respect for women.
Although the ₹500 fine may seem small, supporters believe the rule sends a strong message about dignity and respectful communication.
Village leaders hope that other communities may also take similar steps to discourage abusive language and promote gender respect in everyday life.
khushisikarwar is an award-winning journalist and content creator who thrives on telling stories that matter. As a key contributor to Newsisland, [she] focus on cultural commentary, providing readers with thought-provoking insights.
