In a unique initiative to promote respectful behaviour, Borsar village in Madhya Pradesh’s Burhanpur district has introduced a rule imposing a Rs 500 fine or one hour of mandatory cleaning duty for using abusive language. 

The decision was taken unanimously by the Gram Panchayat, and posters announcing the rule have been displayed across the village. The move aims to regulate public conduct and reduce conflicts arising from verbal abuse. Deputy Sarpanch Vinod Shinde said that the initiative was introduced to curb the widespread use of derogatory language among both children and adults. “Earlier, people frequently used offensive words, including remarks targeting mothers and sisters. Now, anyone found doing so must either pay a fine of Rs 500 or perform one hour of cleaning work in the village,” he said.