Thirumavalavan Urges DMK to Press Ahead with Law Against Honour Crimes

Quick Summary

• Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) founder Thol.Thirumavalavan urged Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to enact a separate law against honor-based crimes despite opposition from caste groups.
• He highlighted past examples,such as the Hindu Marriage (Tamil Nadu Amendment) Act,1967,and Mandal Commission’s recommendations,which faced initial resistance but were eventually accepted by society.
• Thirumavalavan emphasized that honour-based crimes occur across communities and states and are not exclusive to Scheduled Castes.
• He provided comprehensive references supporting the need for a specific law, including recommendations from the National Commission of Women, Law Commission of India directives, Supreme Court observations in Shakti Vahini vs Union Of India case, private member bills in Parliament, and legislation introduced in Rajasthan.
• The Tamil Nadu congress Committee also observed a day’s fast on this issue under SC wing leader M.P. Ranjan Kumar.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The call for specialized legislation against honour-based crimes reflects growing attention toward addressing societal regression tied to casteism and community pressures. Historical parallels with reforms like self-respect marriages underscore challenges policymakers face when confronting entrenched norms. While Thol. Thirumavalavan’s proposal highlights urgency supported by national commissions and legal precedents mentioned in the text-such as Supreme Court directives-its successful implementation could signal progressive strides for Tamil Nadu as a state credited with pioneering social justice models.

Though, CM Stalin’s lack of immediate assurance suggests ongoing deliberations or potential political complications arising from opposition groups within affected communities themselves. Moving forward carefully yet decisively is critical to balancing democratic principles with resistance rooted in tradition.

Read more: The Hindu