The government decided to introduce the bill in view of the increasing number of incidents of violence and killings related to inter-caste marriages. | Photo credit: Yume-Tabi
The state government on Wednesday (March 18) introduced the Freedom of Choice in Marriage and Prevention and Prohibition of Crimes in the Name of Honor and Tradition (Eva Nammava, Eva Nammava) Bill, 2026, in the Karnataka legislature. It aims to curb “honour killings” and violence stemming from caste-based objections to inter-caste marriages.
The bill notes that caste-based discrimination continues to persist in Karnataka and often manifests itself in brutal forms of violence, including honor killings, particularly against young adults who exercise their constitutional right to choose their life partners through inter-caste marriage.
The proposed legislation seeks to ensure freedom of choice in marriage, prevent caste crimes, protect human rights and promote dignity in inter-caste unions. He also suggests the creation of Eva Nammava, Eva Nammava Vedike (meaning “he/she is ours”) to celebrate and encourage inter-caste marriages.
The government decided to introduce the bill in view of the increasing number of incidents of violence and killings linked to inter-caste marriages.
Severe penalties
The bill guarantees protection for consenting adults entering into marriage and provides safeguards against coercion by family or community. It proposes a minimum sentence of five years in prison in cases where a person or couple is killed in the name of “honour”.
In cases of injury caused in the name of “honour”, the punishment includes a minimum of two years imprisonment along with a fine of ₹2,000.
Prohibition of illegal collection
The legislation prohibits the assembly of five or more persons with the intention of condemning or opposing a marriage based on caste, tribe, community, tradition or family objections.
Those found guilty of taking part in illegal assemblies or intimidation will face up to three years in prison and a fine of ₹2,000.
All state government officials will be required and empowered to assist law enforcement agencies in implementing the provisions of the Act.
Monitoring and implementation
The government will identify districts, sub-divisions and villages where such crimes have been reported in the last five years. Each district municipality will form a monitoring committee to oversee implementation, review relief and rehabilitation measures and monitor prosecution of cases.
In addition, an Eva Nammava Vedike will be constituted in each district, consisting of a retired Magistrate, Police Officer, Revenue Officer, Sub-Registrar and other members as prescribed.
The government, in consultation with the High Court, designates some district courts as special fast-track courts to hear cases related to crimes committed in the name of “honour”.
Tax law
The Karnataka Tax on Professions, Trades, Occupations and Employment (Amendment) Bill, 2026 was also introduced in the assembly. It aims to simplify compliance, reduce paperwork and ease of doing business.
The draft law proposes that the submission of the return is considered complete in cases where the registered person has paid the tax due for the year in question. The move is expected to streamline tax administration, improve voluntary compliance and enable more efficient use of departmental resources.
Published – 18 March 2026 19:57 IST
