Karnataka Introduces Landmark Legislation to Tackle Honour Killings and Caste-Based Violence
The Karnataka government took a significant step on Wednesday by tabling the Karnataka Freedom of Choice in Marriage and Prevention and Prohibition of Honour and Tradition (Eva Nammava Eva Nammava) Bill, 2026, in the state assembly. This proposed legislation aims to address the rising incidents of honour killings and caste-based violence, particularly those linked to inter-caste and interfaith marriages.
Inspiration from Basavanna and Response to Recent Tragedies
The bill draws its name from a 12th-century vachana by the revered social reformer Basavanna, which translates to 'He is ours, he is ours'. This phrase embodies ideals of equality and non-discrimination, reflecting the bill's core mission to protect individual freedoms. The move follows the tragic killing of a pregnant woman in Hubballi in December 2025, allegedly by her family for marrying a Dalit man, highlighting the urgent need for such a law.
Priyank Kharge, the Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister, tabled the bill on behalf of the Law Minister, emphasizing the government's commitment to safeguarding constitutional rights.
Stringent Penalties and Legal Provisions
The proposed legislation grants consenting adults the unequivocal right to marry and prescribes severe penalties for offences committed in the name of honour. Key provisions include:
- For causing death: A minimum prison term of five years, in addition to punishments under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
- For grievous injuries: A jail term of not less than three years and a fine of up to Rs 3 lakh.
- For minor injuries: A minimum prison term of two years and a fine of up to Rs 2 lakh.
The bill also targets unlawful assemblies and criminal intimidation related to honour, with penalties of three to five years imprisonment and fines up to Rs 2 lakh. All offences under this law are classified as non-bailable, ensuring stricter accountability.
Addressing Systemic Issues and Providing Support
The legislation notes that honour-based violence persists due to deep-rooted caste discrimination, violating fundamental rights under Articles 14, 19, and 21 of the Constitution. In the absence of a dedicated law, perpetrators have often escaped stringent punishment, leaving victims without adequate protection or rehabilitation.
To combat this, the bill proposes the establishment of district-level platforms titled 'Iva Nammava'. These panels, constituted by district magistrates, will include members such as a retired judge, police officer, revenue officer, and sub-registrar to support couples and prevent crimes.
Additional measures include:
- Special fast-track courts for cases under the act.
- A mandate for police to file chargesheets within two months.
- Provisions for safe shelter and security for affected couples.
This comprehensive approach aims to create a robust legal framework that not only punishes offenders but also offers tangible support to those at risk, marking a pivotal moment in Karnataka's efforts to uphold social justice and individual freedoms.
