II

I fully endorse the views expressed in the editorial. The judgement of the court is timely and should be appreciated by all. Khaps have run amuck in Haryana and all steps must be taken to control them.

“Honour killings” are a slur on the fair name of India and this trend must be properly dealt with. Their outlook is medieval and out of tune with the changing times. All political parties must unite to rein in khaps without thinking about their vested interests and vote banks.

AMAR JIT SINGH GORAYA, Griffith NSW, Australia

III

Death penalty to five persons and the life sentence awarded to another for the murder of a young couple marrying against the edicts of a khap panchayat is a historic verdict and will send a right signal to those who have become a law unto themselves. However, it is premature to go gaga over this judgment as culprits will most probably challenge this verdict in a higher court. 

Even otherwise it will be foolhardy to believe that this one verdict will bring about a sea change in the thinking and behaviour of a feudalistic society. We all must change our mindset and learn to rise above narrow considerations of caste and religion.

Nothing illustrates our apathy and indifference better than the fact that crimes like female foeticide and infanticide are being perpetrated with impunity. In most cases, we go with the flow and look the other way for the sake of our convenience. Khap panchayats will, therefore, continue to survive and thrive until we challenge their diktats openly and fearlessly.

 HEMA, Langeri (Hoshiarpur)

IV

The editorial was apt, timely and echoed the sentiments of most people by applauding the verdict of the  Karnal court against the brutal “honour killings” of Manoj and Babli. Khaps in particular, and those who support these inhuman practices or remain mute spectators in general, should get the right message that no one can take the law in their hands.

Such incidents show Haryana, otherwise a progressive state, in poor light. Despite the state’s modernisation, and rapid progress, these mindless killings are giving an impression as if we are still living in a medieval period.  Khap panchayats are out of place and need to be strictly dealt with by the government of Haryana. Let us hope the menace of khaps is eradicated soon.

Col R D SINGH, Ambala Cantt 

V

This kind of justice will surely put the fear of law in the minds of those who indulge in such heinous crimes. Now it remains to be seen whether the accused appeal in the higher courts. No mercy should be shown to these barbarians. The higher courts should uphold the judgement.

I also agree that those who aided and abetted the crime should also be held responsible and punished as per the law of the land.

With the spread of education the thinking of the youth has changed. The new generation does not believe in the archaic mentality of the bygone era any more.

Even parents should learn to live with the wishes of their children. If children desire to marry someone of their choice, they must not be discouraged. Opposition to their decision may lead to dangerous  consequences.

People must come out against the so called “khap panchayats” which issue illegal diktats. It is a shame that the politicians see in khap panchayats a dependable political tool and vote bank.

The police is also to be blamed for not taking action against these illegal khaps. Another incident of “honour killings” in Punjab has come to light. Even these murderers should be punished.

R K KAPOOR, Chandigarh