Khaps are traditional area based community organization whose rulings have no legal sanction.
Justice Mudgal while hearing a case related to a PIL by an NGO has reacted in strong words that “Are you trying to say that Khap Panchayats are above the Constitution? It is only Custom? This is not Afghanistan, this is India. Talibani courts cannot be allowed here.
The silence of Haryana government, which is the origin of honour killings, over this burning issue is going to invite more complex situation in the days to come.
In fact, for want of vote bank, no political party is against the voice of the self styled leaders of the society who think they are above the law. Khap panchayats should not interfere in the personal life of consented couples and the government should not delay in prosecuting its members under the law. There is apprehension that tomorrow they may come with another amendment for not marrying out of caste like sikh or muslims. Marrying is purely a social and personal bond with mutual understandings and it would be better if the actions of khaps are snubbed without any further loss of time.
The law and order situation has deteriorated to such an extent that the Additional District and Session Judge, Vani Goplal Sharma of Karnal who delivered the judgement in the Manoj and Babli honour killing cases, apprehends threat to her life.
It is futile to expect decisive action from our leaders against the khap panchayats as the former are concerned more with their vote banks than with individuals’ rights. Academicians, social activists and women organization must come forward to settle the hash of anachronistic organizations like khap panchayats once for all.
The need of the hour is that the government must realize the seriousness of the problem and guarantee to create conditions in which young couples are able to enjoy liberty and live with peace.
It is very much right that first the police should play major role in protecting the rights of young couples besides politicians should come with firm statements keeping aside their personal interests.
