Marriage Registration and Legal Protections for Couples

The Gujarat government has proposed requiring couples to submit identity documents of their parents when registering their marriage. This is to ensure that parents have been informed about the marriage.

Karnataka’s Legislative Measures

In contrast, Karnataka has passed the Karnataka Freedom of Choice in Marriage and Prevention and Prohibition of Crimes in the Name of Honour and Tradition Bill, 2026. This Bill aims to provide legal protection for inter-caste couples who face threats, violence, or coercion, including from family members.

• The Bill asserts that parental or familial consent is unnecessary if two adults agree to marry.
• It addresses rising "honour"-related violence, highlighted by a tragic incident in Hubballi taluk involving the murder of a woman by her father for marrying a Dalit.
• Statistics show Karnataka recorded 15 hate crimes against couples in the last five years.
• The Bill's name, "Eva Nammava, Eva Nammava," refers to a 12th-century philosopher Basavanna's inclusive message.

Provisions and Objectives

The Bill aims to affirm and protect individuals' liberty, dignity, and autonomy, providing legal safeguards and institutional mechanisms for prevention and redressal.

• It proposes a minimum five-year prison sentence for "honour" killings.
• Social boycotts linked to such cases are criminalized.
• Institutional support includes police protection within six hours, state-funded safe houses, and legal aid.
• A special cell with a 24-hour helpline, Eva Nammava Vedike, is proposed for marriage facilitation and counselling.

Challenges and Broader Context

While the Bill's provisions are commendable, effective implementation is a challenge, especially in a societal context favoring caste consolidation.

Additionally, despite passing this supportive Bill, Karnataka has not repealed the controversial Karnataka Protection of Right to Freedom of Religion Act, 2022, which affects interfaith marriages.

Overall, both inter-caste and interfaith couples facing hostility and violence require support to protect their rights.