Karnataka plans stringent law to curb honour killings, inter-caste violence

Bengaluru: In a major move aimed at curbing honour killings and crimes committed in the name of caste and “family honour”, the Karnataka government is considering bringing a separate, stringent law that proposes up to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment and fines of up to ₹3 lakh for offenders.

The proposed legislation, tentatively titled The Karnataka Prohibition of Crimes in the Name of Honour, Tradition and Custom Bill, 2026, is likely to be tabled in the upcoming Budget session of the state legislature. The move comes amid growing concern over increasing cases of honour killings and brutal attacks on couples involved in inter-caste marriages.

The urgency for such a law intensified following the recent killing of a young woman, Manya, in Inam Veerapur village of Hubballi, allegedly by her father and relatives for marrying a Scheduled Caste man. Six accused have been arrested in the case, which triggered widespread outrage and renewed demands for a dedicated legal framework to address honour-based crimes.

According to the draft bill, the law may also be referred to as “Iva Nammava”, inspired by the 12th-century social reformer Basavanna’s vachana meaning “everyone belongs to us”. The proposed law seeks to fill critical gaps in existing criminal statutes, which do not explicitly address crimes driven by caste honour, social boycotts, forced rituals, or denial of inheritance rights.

The bill clearly affirms individual autonomy. Section 3(1) states that every person has the right to liberty, freedom of expression, and the freedom to marry a person of their choice. Section 3(3) further clarifies that once two consenting adults agree to marry, approval from parents, family, caste, or community is not required.

Any attempt by individuals or groups to obstruct these rights will be treated as a criminal offence. Under the proposed provisions, causing serious harm to individuals or couples in the name of honour could attract a minimum of 10 years’ imprisonment, extendable to life imprisonment, along with a fine of up to ₹3 lakh.

Lesser injuries may invite up to three years in jail and fines up to ₹2 lakh. In cases resulting in death, additional punishment under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita will apply. The bill also criminalises deceitful sexual relationships under false promises of marriage in inter-caste contexts, prescribing punishments ranging from five years’ imprisonment to life imprisonment and fines.

Importantly, the burden of proof in such cases would rest on the accused. The draft mandates immediate police protection within six hours of receiving a complaint, shelter for threatened couples, special district-level cells, fast-track courts, and the establishment of “Iva Namava” platforms under district magistrates to facilitate counselling and lawful marriages.

Also Read: Raichur youth fulfils parents’ dream with helicopter ride, wins hearts