Tamil Nadu to Set Up Safe Houses Against Honor Killings

The Tamil Nadu government has decided to create a safe house in every district to protect individuals and families at risk of honor killings, caste violence, or related attacks. This decision was announced by Social Justice Minister Vanni Arasu during the Assembly last Friday. The move follows the Supreme Court’s ruling in the Shakti Vahini case and comes after requests from survivors of honor killings and activists.

Activist Kausalya Shankar called the announcement “historic” and thanked the government led by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay and Mr. Arasu. She shared her personal experience, saying that without such shelters, she might have lost her husband Shankar, who was killed in an honor killing after they defied their families to marry.

Geeta Ilangovan, an anti-caste activist and filmmaker, described the safe houses as a lifeline for women. She explained how a surviving bride from an honor killing faces unique challenges, including fear of harassment and difficulty pursuing justice. The shelters will provide safety, help rebuild lives, and support legal battles.

However, activist Evidence Kathir noted that while Tamil Nadu had established a 24-hour helpline for inter-caste couples in 2018, it hasn’t worked properly. He urged the government to ensure safe houses are used only for protection and not persuasion to end marriages. He emphasized the need for court oversight to guarantee safety for those seeking help.