Karnataka Moves to Safeguard Marital Choice with New Bill

The Karnataka government is set to introduce legislation aimed at preventing crimes in the name of honour and tradition, particularly those hindering marital freedom. The bill seeks to provide legal protections, penalize offences, and ensure institutional support. Discussions in the legislature, including setting up fast-track courts, are forthcoming.

The Karnataka government is taking a significant step toward safeguarding individual freedom in marital choices by introducing a new piece of legislation. The proposed Karnataka Freedom of Choice in Marriage and Prevention and Prohibition of Crimes in the Name of Honour and Tradition Bill, 2026, targets crimes facilitated by outdated honour and tradition concepts that hinder personal choice in marriage.

This initiative follows an alarming incident where a young woman's death, allegedly because of an inter-caste marriage, prompted widespread public outcry. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has emphasized that such acts of violence will not be tolerated, signaling the administration's commitment to pushing the legislative agenda forward. Plans include establishing fast-track courts to expedite related criminal cases.

The draft bill clearly outlines the penalties for various offences under its provisions, such as capital punishment for murder in the name of honour and severe penalties for causing harm. Notably, it addresses the issues of deceitful promises of marriage in inter-caste unions, reinforcing the state's stance on protecting individual autonomy over personal life choices.

(With inputs from agencies.)