Chennai, Aug 6 (NationPress) Thol Thirumavalavan, President of Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK), along with P. Shanmugam, State Secretary of the Communist Party of India-Marxist, and R. Mutharasan, State Secretary of the Communist Party of India (CPI), presented a joint appeal to Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Wednesday. They are advocating for the creation of a special law aimed at tackling caste killings and providing safety for inter-caste and inter-faith couples in Tamil Nadu.

The group met with Stalin at his residence in Chennai and also took a moment to inquire about his health following his recent hospitalization.

In their comprehensive memorandum, the leaders voiced their concerns regarding the ongoing violence and murders linked to inter-caste and inter-faith relationships.

They emphasized that these violent acts underscore the urgent necessity for specific legislation to combat caste killings, which should be more focused than existing general criminal laws.

"Over the past decade, hundreds have lost their lives due to caste-centered violence in Tamil Nadu. These incidents are not merely isolated acts by individuals or families; they frequently stem from societal pressures, intimidation by dominant caste groups, extra-judicial 'katta panchayats' (kangaroo courts), and deeply ingrained beliefs about caste purity and family honor," the representation stated.

The leaders pointed out that in many instances, these murders are simply charged under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code or Section 101 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, without recognizing the caste-related motivations and coercion involved.

Referencing reports and recommendations from human rights organizations, as well as private member bills presented in both Parliament and the Tamil Nadu Assembly, they mentioned similar laws enacted in states like Rajasthan and Haryana that categorize honour killings as a distinct and aggravated crime.

They urged the Chief Minister to promptly initiate the drafting and passing of a state-specific law that imposes strict penalties on perpetrators, dismantles non-legal caste forums, and establishes safety protocols for couples facing threats.

The leaders asserted that such legislation would convey a powerful message against caste discrimination, reinforce Tamil Nadu's reputation as a state committed to social justice, and safeguard citizens' constitutional rights to choose their partners regardless of caste or religion.