AIDWA launches campaign against honour killings

Demanding a stiff law that provides for preventive and rehabilitative measures in honour killing cases, AIDWA today launched a nation-wide campaign.
AIDWA (All India Democratic Women's Association) Vice-President Kirti Singh said the Law Commission draft in this regard is premised only upon marriage, whereas the AIDWA draft law reiterates a person's right to choice in all consensual relationships.
Also due to lack of evidence that can be produced in this crime, the AIDWA draft law suggests that, burden of proof should be shifted on the accused.
The AIDWA draft law has also suggests that both Khap panchayats, who sanction a range of violent actions in these cases, and individuals including family members, who abuse and harass and subject couples to a series of coercive and brutal acts should be punished.

The campaign, "Pass the BILL, because 'HONOUR' kills", will have different phases and will engage people from all walks of life, Singh said.
"The campaign has been started to press the demand that the draft in tune with the understanding of women's organisations must be taken forward for consideration and be passed without delay," AIDWA General Secretary Jagmati Sangwan said.
A delegation comprising senior members of AIDWA will also meet the Law Minister in this regard today.