Karnataka passes law protecting inter-caste couples from honour crimes
Change
Karnataka enacted the Karnataka Freedom of Choice in Marriage and Prevention and Prohibition of Crimes in the Name of Honour and Tradition Bill, 2026, criminalising killings and social ostracism carried out in the name of honour and establishing state obligations for protection and rehabilitation including district safe houses and a 24-hour helpline.
Why it matters
The law treats attempts to block or punish adult consensual marriages as criminal conduct and exposes relatives and community actors to legal prosecution. It also shifts the immediate duty of care onto state agencies by creating formal protection, counselling, and rehabilitation mechanisms for targeted couples.
Implications
- • District police forces must respond to complaints and provide physical protection to couples without delay.
- • District administrations must establish and operate state-funded safe houses in every district.
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