India Legal News: SC Issues Notice on Honor Killings

India legal news reports that honor killing incidents are increasing at a frightening rate in different parts of the country. Every morning, you can find at least one such incident reported officially. Imagine what the actual number of figures might be really like. Honor killings take place in India, irrespective of a person’s religious, economic or cultural background. Indian law does not specifically recognize honor killing as a criminal offence. It is unfortunate that most honor killings in India take place based on the directions of khap panchayats. The purpose is to ‘save’ family reputation.

India Legal News: Notice Issued to Centre, States

India legal news reports in the media state that the Supreme Court has issued notice to the Centre and some state governments about the increasing number of honor killings.

A petition was filed by a NGO, ‘Shakti Vahini’ before the court, contending that there was an alarming growth in the number of such killings in Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana. It was further stated that no measures are being taken by the States or the government at the Centre to curb such incidents. The NGO further alleged that the reason behind such negligence is to secure vote bank for the political parties. The petition demanded a direction to the States, to start proper prosecution in such cases. It also sought investigation of the role of law enforcement authorities in such incidents.

The Bench comprising of Justices R.M. Lodha and A.K. Patnaik, demanded responses and issued notice to the respective Governments pertaining to the matter. They have asked for submission of a Plan of Action to curb honor killing incidents.