VCK Renews Demand for Separate Law Against Honour Killings in Tamil Nadu

The Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) on Sunday renewed its demand for a separate law to prevent honour killings in Tamil Nadu , saying legislative efforts are underway and expressing confidence that a dedicated law would soon be enacted. The party also criticised Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar , accusing him of attempting to run a "parallel government" in violation of constitutional norms.

Speaking to reporters, Tamil Nadu Minister for Social Justice Vanni Arasu said the VCK has consistently campaigned against honour killings, describing them as among the gravest forms of caste-based violence . He recalled raising the issue during his maiden speech in the Assembly and said the party has led several protests demanding stronger legal safeguards.

Arasu said existing criminal provisions can punish offences such as murder, but activists have long argued that Tamil Nadu needs a dedicated anti-honour killing law to improve prevention, victim protection and accountability in crimes often linked to inter-caste and inter-faith marriages . The demand has gained momentum following several high-profile honour killing cases in the state.

Expressing confidence in the government's efforts, Arasu said a standalone law would soon become a reality, adding that critics would eventually appreciate the move.

On the Governor's recent outreach, Arasu alleged that Arlekar was acting beyond his constitutional role by holding review meetings with senior district officials in Madurai and inviting citizens to submit grievances directly at Lok Bhavan . He said a Governor must function in accordance with the advice of the democratically elected Cabinet and Chief Minister , and claimed such actions amounted to an attempt to run a parallel administration.

The remarks come amid broader criticism from several political parties over the Governor's recent administrative engagements in Tamil Nadu.