Tamil Nadu to form commission to curb honour killings, says CM Stalin

CHENNAI: Chief Minister MK Stalin on Friday announced the formation of a commission headed by Justice KN Basha, retired judge of the Madras High Court, to recommend measures for enacting a comprehensive law to curb honour killings in the State.

Making the announcement during his address to the Legislative Assembly, the chief minister said the state government is committed to eradicating caste violence and social discrimination. "Tamil Nadu will take all necessary steps to enact a law aimed at completely eliminating honour killings," he said, adding that the commission would comprise legal experts, social reformers, and scholars in anthropology. The panel would consult political leaders, social activists, legal professionals, and affected families before submitting its recommendations.

Stressing that social reform must go hand in hand with strict law enforcement, Stalin said the Dravidian movement has long fought for equality, rationality, and fraternity. "Reform movements led by leaders like Periyar, Bharathidasan, and 'Kalaignar' M Karunanidhi sowed the seeds of equality in this land," he said.

The chief minister said that caste distinctions were never part of Tamil heritage but were imposed later through social divisions. "Killing or humiliating another human being in the name of caste or honour can never be justified in a civilised society. Patriarchal dominance and caste pride are the roots of these heinous crimes," he observed.

Referring to recent incidents that shook the collective conscience of the society, Stalin said they called for both legal and social responses. "The government has instructed the police to take the strictest possible action against offenders under relevant laws, including the Goondas Act. But more importantly, awareness against caste superiority must be built by social and political movements alike," he said.

Emphasising that Tamil Nadu will lead the nation in social justice, Stalin asserted, "This commission under Justice Basha will pave the way for a strong legal framework to end honour killings once and for all. Based on its recommendations, the government will take all necessary steps to bring an effective law into force."