Kalaburagi: In a shocking case of honour killing, an 18-year-old girl was murdered by her own father and relatives in Melakunda (B) village of Kalaburagi taluk for pursuing an intercaste relationship.
Crime concealed for four days
The victim, identified as Kavita Kollura, was killed four days ago but the crime came to light only on Saturday. According to police, Kavita was first strangled and later burnt by her father and two relatives, who opposed her relationship with a young man from another caste.
Kalaburagi City Police Commissioner Sharanappa S D confirmed that the motive was rooted in long-standing enmity between the two castes. “The family disapproved of her relationship and resorted to this extreme act to preserve what they believed was their ‘honour’,” he said.
Accused on the run
Police said that after committing the crime, Kavita’s father and other accused family members fled the village. A manhunt has been launched to trace and arrest them. Preliminary investigations suggest that Kavita’s killing was premeditated, and attempts were made to destroy evidence by burning her body.
Caste tensions behind the crime
Authorities pointed out that caste-based hostilities in Melakunda (B) have persisted for many years, creating deep social divides. Activists say such tensions often manifest in honour crimes, where families resort to violence to prevent or punish relationships that cross caste lines.
Rising concern over honour killings
Human rights organisations have condemned the incident, calling it a brutal violation of women’s rights and freedom of choice. They have urged the Karnataka government to implement stricter safeguards and awareness campaigns to prevent such crimes.
Police officials assured that strict action will be taken against all those involved, and a detailed investigation is underway.