Telangana couple dies by suicide after family opposes inter-caste marriage
The deceased have been identified as Anumula Rakesh Reddy (25) and his wife, 22-year-old Tharigoppula Harika. The couple had fallen in love, married, and moved to Hyderabad before returning to their village in Siddipet district three months ago.
A young couple died by suicide in Telangana after the groom's family opposed their inter-caste marriage.
The deceased have been identified as Anumula Rakesh Reddy (25) and his wife, 22-year-old Tharigoppula Harika. The couple had fallen in love, married, and moved to Hyderabad before returning to their village in Siddipet district three months ago.
Police said that Reddy’s parents did not accept the marriage as his wife belonged to a different caste, which caused severe emotional distress to the couple.
Police stated that Rakesh Reddy tried to end his life by consuming pesticide on March 28 and died on March 30 while undergoing treatment. After learning about her husband's death, Harika died by suicide on April 2.
Police officials said Harika had previously attempted suicide. Consequently, after being counselled by the police, Reddy's parents reluctantly agreed to the marriage.
Police have registered a case regarding the incident and an investigation is currently underway.
56% OF INDIANS OPPOSED TO INTER-CASTE MARRIAGES
In 2025, the India Today GDB survey also found a prevalence in resistance to inter-caste marriages, with 56% of the respondents opposing them.
While 84% of the respondents in Uttar Pradesh showed resistance to inter-caste unions, 91% of the people surveyed from Chandigarh were okay with such marriages.
Several states, including Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka and Haryana, promote inter-caste marriages through various schemes.
The Centre too has a social integration scheme whereby financial support is provided to all couples where either the bride or the groom is a Dalit.