Dharwad: Actor and social activist Chetan Ahimsa has demanded the establishment of a fast-track court to ensure speedy justice in the Manjula Patil honour killing case in Hubballi, which had sparked widespread outrage across Karnataka.
Speaking to the media on Saturday, Chetan said honour killings remained a serious social problem despite technological advancements. Referring to a recent honour killing in Gujarat, in which a 21-year-old woman was allegedly murdered by her father, he said such incidents continued to occur because of deep-rooted social prejudices.
Recalling the murder of Manjula on December 21 last year in Hubballi taluk, Chetan said she had married Vivekananda against her family’s wishes and was subsequently killed by her father.He said the government had made several assurances following the incident, including the establishment of a fast-track court, but none had been fulfilled so far.
“Even after 11 months, the trial has not begun. Five of the accused have already secured bail, while the remaining five are still in prison. A fast-track court must be established immediately to ensure justice. Vivekananda should be provided a government job, and his family must be given adequate security,” he demanded.
Chetan also stressed that the ‘Iva Nammava’ law should not remain limited to paper promises, pointing out that hundreds of cases were still pending. He urged the government to take effective measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Speaking about his political plans, Chetan said preparations were underway to organise conventions across all districts ahead of the next Assembly elections, with an intention to contest in all 224 constituencies. He said an alternative political force was necessary to ensure equality and justice for everyone.
Meanwhile, Vivekananda, husband of the deceased Manjula, said his family was still waiting for justice. He urged the government to fulfil its promises of establishing a fast-track court, providing him with a government job and ensuring security for his family.He expressed disappointment that none of the assurances had been implemented and reiterated that five accused had already been granted bail.
