Tamil Nadu to Set Up Safe Houses in Every District to Protect Inter-Caste Couples

The Tamil Nadu government has decided to set up a safe house in every district to provide security to individuals and families vulnerable to and affected by 'honour' killings and caste-related violence. Minister for Social Justice Vanni Arasu announced the decision in the State Legislative Assembly on Friday.

The policy move aligns with the Supreme Court's judgment in the Shakti Vahini vs. Union of India case and comes after representations submitted by survivors of caste killings and social activists. The government also plans to enact dedicated legislation against caste killings.

Activist Kausalya Shankar termed the announcement historic and thanked the TVK-led government, headed by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, along with Social Justice Minister Vanni Arasu. Having lost her husband Shankar to an 'honour' killing, she noted that the facilities would offer crucial support to couples who face familial opposition.

"When a couple goes against the wishes of their parents to get married, they would have nowhere to go. If only we had such a safe house earlier, I would not have lost my husband Shankar," she said, adding her support for the proposed anti-caste killing legislation.

Anti-caste activist and filmmaker Geeta Ilangovan highlighted the significance of the shelter homes for women, describing them as an absolute lifeline for surviving brides who face immense devastation and trauma following the murder of their partners. She stated that the shelter would offer more than a roof, serving as a sanctuary where surviving brides can find safety, rebuild their livelihoods, and pursue legal battles for justice.

Activist Evidence Kathir urged caution regarding the execution of the project, pointing out that special cells with a 24-hour helpline set up by the state in 2018 to receive harassment complaints had not functioned properly. He stressed that authorities must ensure the safe houses are not used to pressure couples into ending their marriages, and recommended that the facilities operate under the direct monitoring of the courts to guarantee protection.