Karnataka Assembly Unanimously Passes Social Boycott Prevention Bill

The Karnataka Legislative Assembly unanimously passed the Social Boycott Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal Bill, criminalising caste- and community-based social boycotts with penalties of up to three years imprisonment, a fine of ₹1 lakh, or both. Introduced by Social Welfare Minister H. C. Mahadevappa, the legislation aims to eradicate practices of social exclusion often imposed by informal caste or community panchayats. If enacted, Karnataka will become the second state after Maharashtra to specifically outlaw such boycotts through dedicated law.

The bill defines "social boycott" broadly, encompassing any act that leads to discrimination within a community, including denial of work, business dealings, services, or participation in social and religious activities on equal terms. It lists 20 specific forms of exclusion, such as refusing to hire individuals, blocking access to common resources, interfering with marriages or funerals, and enforcing ostracism. The law targets not only those who directly impose boycotts but also individuals who use influence to enforce them or vote in favour within community bodies.

During assembly debates, Minister Mahadevappa described the measure as historic, emphasising its role in promoting equality and protecting marginalised groups from further isolation. Legislators from the Bharatiya Janata Party and Janata Dal (Secular) supported the bill without opposition. The legislation also criminalises gatherings intended to plan boycotts, declaring such assemblies unlawful, and provides for the appointment of social boycott prohibition officers to detect violations and assist courts.

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The bill highlights the inadequacy of existing laws in addressing these practices, noting persistent harassment through extrajudicial mechanisms that undermine dignity and social harmony. All offences under the act are cognisable and bailable, with courts required to hear victims before sentencing convicted individuals. Those aiding or abetting boycotts face similar penalties.

Recent incidents, including reported ostracism of Dalit families in villages across Tumakuru, Bijapur, and Yadgir districts over temple entry, naming requests, or police complaints, underscore the ongoing prevalence of such practices. The new law seeks to strengthen protections and foster greater social cohesion across Karnataka's diverse communities.

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