Karnataka Social Boycott (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal Bill) 2025.

Karnataka Social Boycott (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal Bill) 2025.

News –

• Recently the Karnataka assembly passed The Karnataka Social Boycott (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal Bill) 2025.

Karnataka Social Boycott (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Bill, 2025.

• Objective – The legislation aims to criminalize social exclusion and “unconstitutional practices” enforced by informal bodies like caste or community panchayats.
• Uniqueness – Karnataka is the second state in India to enact such a law, following Maharashtra’s 2016 Act.

Key Provisions & Features

• Target Entities: Specifically targets caste panchayats, community groups, or influential individuals who enforce social boycotts.
• Definition of Social Boycott: Defines it as any oral or written act/gesture resulting in social discrimination. It recognizes 20 forms of boycott, including:

1. Denial of professional, social, or economic interactions.
2. Obstruction from religious or community functions, marriages, and funeral rites.
3. Restricting access to public spaces, services, educational institutions, or water sources.
4. Forcing individuals to follow specific cultural norms (e.g., dress or language).

• Criminal Liability: Liability extends to those who directly impose the boycott, those who encourage it, and members of any body who vote in favor of such a decision.
• Penalties: Offenders face imprisonment for up to three years, a fine of up to ₹1 lakh, or both.

Enforcement Mechanism:

• Social Boycott Prohibition Officer: A Group ‘A’ officer will be appointed to detect offenses and assist victims during trials.
• Police Powers: The police are empowered to file suo motu (on their own initiative) complaints.
• Victim Support: Recovered fines may be awarded to victims as compensation.