Bengaluru, March 19, 2026 — The Karnataka government has introduced a significant piece of legislation in the Legislative Assembly aimed at eradicating so-called "honour" killings and other caste-based violence, while safeguarding the constitutional right of adults to marry partners of their choice.
On Wednesday, March 18, the state tabled The Karnataka Freedom of Choice in Marriage and Prevention and Prohibition of Crimes in the Name of Honour and Tradition (Eva Nammava, Eva Nammava) Bill, 2026. The bill's title draws inspiration from a famous 12th-century vachana (verse) by the social reformer Basavanna, symbolizing inclusivity and equality with the phrase meaning "He is ours, he is ours."
The move comes in response to persistent incidents of violence against inter-caste couples, including the brutal murder of a pregnant woman, Manya Patil, in Hubballi in December 2025. The victim, from the Lingayat community, was allegedly killed by family members for marrying a man from the Scheduled Caste (Dalit) community. Such cases have highlighted ongoing caste-based discrimination and the need for stronger legal protections.
The proposed law affirms the fundamental rights of consenting adults under Articles 14, 19, and 21 of the Indian Constitution, as well as the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. It explicitly prohibits interference by families, caste groups, community bodies, or others in the marital choices of adults.
Key provisions of the bill include:
Punishments for honour crimes — Honour killings will carry a minimum imprisonment of five years, with potential for life imprisonment or stricter penalties in severe cases. Offences causing grievous hurt or injury (not amounting to death) will attract three to five years' imprisonment and fines up to ₹2-3 lakh.
Broader definition of crimes — The legislation covers not just murders but also physical harm, forced marriages or divorces, social boycotts, unlawful assemblies (of five or more persons) to obstruct or condemn such marriages, and other forms of harassment or ostracism in the name of "honour" or tradition.
All offences cognizable and non-bailable — This ensures prompt police action and stricter enforcement.
Support mechanisms — The bill proposes establishing "Eva Nammava Vedike" (forums or platforms) to solemnize inter-caste marriages, provide counselling, and offer protection. It also envisions shelter homes, rehabilitation for victims, and fast-track courts for speedy trials.
The government emphasized that caste-based discrimination continues to manifest in brutal violence, particularly targeting young adults and women from marginalized communities who choose inter-caste or inter-community unions. The bill seeks to promote dignity, human rights, and social harmony by dismantling barriers rooted in caste hierarchies.
The legislation has been welcomed by many as a progressive step toward upholding personal liberty and constitutional values, though it may face debate in the Assembly over implementation and potential opposition from conservative groups.
The bill is now open for discussion and potential amendments before it proceeds to further stages in the legislative process.
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