Shielding ‘choice’ from ‘honour’, Pg7

Key Highlights:

• The Karnataka Legislature passed the Karnataka Freedom of Choice in Marriage Bill, 2026, protecting inter-caste couples from threats and violence.
• The Bill emphasizes that adult individuals do not need parental consent to marry.
• This action follows the murder of a pregnant woman in December 2025 for marrying a Dalit man.
• Over the past five years, Karnataka has recorded 15 hate crimes against couples.

Detailed Insights:

• The Bill's title, "Eva Nammava, Eva Nammava," references a 12th-century reformer Basavanna's message of inclusivity.
• The legislation addresses the rise in violence and harassment against individuals exercising their right to marry.
• The Bill aims to protect the liberty, dignity, and autonomy of all persons and prevent crimes committed in the name of "honour".
• Penalties include a minimum five-year prison sentence for "honour" killings and criminalizing social boycotts.
• The Bill provides institutional support like police protection, safe houses, legal aid, and a 24-hour helpline (Eva Nammava Vedike).
• Despite the new Bill, the implementation effectiveness is questioned due to continued crimes against inter-caste couples.
• Karnataka has yet to repeal the Karnataka Protection of Right to Freedom of Religion Act, 2022 (anti-conversion Act).

Key Concepts Involved:

• Honour Killing: Murder committed to protect or restore the supposed honour of a family.
• Social Ostracism: Exclusion from a society or group.
• Inter-caste Marriage: Marriage between individuals belonging to different castes.