Khaps and the Urbanite India: Intersting article
- Thread starter rkumar
- Start date
Another very positive article on Khaps;
http://www.merinews.com/article/the-khap-controversy-putting-jat-identity-in-crisis/15815143.shtml
The Khap controversy putting Jat identity in crisis
CJ: Pawan Kumar Bansal Mon, May 24, 2010 13:04:06 IST
THE HARDWORKING Jat community of Haryana, Delhi, Rajsthan and Western U.P. is facing serious identity crisis. The whole country, Union Law Minister Veerapa Moily, National Human Rights Commission, media, particularly the English press and electronic media and Congress party high command is up in arms against the Jats for demanding amendments in the Hindu Marriage Act banning marriages between the same gotra (sub-caste) and in the same village.
The National Human Rights Commission has commented that no one has the right to take law in thier own hands by violating an individuals right to life in the name of traditions. C.P.I {M} has even gone upto the extent of smelling conspiracy by the communal forces over the issue as its pilitbuearo member Neloopatal Basu has alleged while addressing a press conference at Chandigarh recently.
He alleged that Hindu communalism was being used to establish the supermacy of one particular religion in the country. adding that it is divisive game of reacationary forces and they must be isolated in the interest of social justice and rule of law.
Khaps are being projected more dangerous than Kasab. I may clarify that i am not holding brief for thier alleged fatwas of honour killings and breaking marriages between couples which they did not like and asking them to live like brother and sister even after several years of the marriage. I also do not agree to their demand of banning the marriages in same villages as in some parts of Haryana adjoining Rajsthan and in Rajssthan it is common practise. Even in home village of Om Parkash Chautala, this practise is common and D.R.Choudhary, member of Haryana administrative reforms commission of the village is married in the same village.
But certainly their demand for banning marriages between same gotra has overwhelming support cutting across caste lines. Mange Ram Sharma, president of all World Brahmin Sabha has also supported this demand adding that marriage between same gotra is sin and it is not the issue conmcerning only the jats.
Gujjjars have also supported this demand. Even former top cop K.P.S.Gill has also supported the demand with a rider that Panchayats should not take law into its hands. Even this demand has scientific and medical support as marriage in same gotra may lead to genetic problems. This is not only issue of Jats.
It is another thing that being a martial communtiy they have aggressively raised the issue. Congress M.P. from Sonepat Loksabha constituency Jitender Malik while supporting the demand has assured that he will bring private member bill in the house for this purpose.
Shadi Lal Batra, a close confident of Haryana Chief Minister , Bhupinder Singh Hooda has introduced a private member bill in the Rajya Sabha over the issue. I may iask where the champion of civil liberties and those condemning the Jats over the demand for amendment in the Hindu Marriage Act were when the judgement of the apex court in Shah Bano case was overpowered by making amendment in the constitution.
Even now Darul uloom has issued fatwa that working in banks and opting for insurance is against the teachings of islam. union minister for minorities Salman Khursheed has rightly said that he was a muslim and has bank account and insurance.
The media partcularly the national english press and electronic media is flooded with reports concerning khaps using the word talibani, fatwas and honour killings. In Haryana it has become a political issue with Om parkash Chautala of Indian National Lok Dal supporting the demand and even promising to bring private member bill in the state assembly for making amendemnet in the Hindu marriage act.
Yoga guru Ramdev has also supported the demand with a rider to panchyats not to take law into their hands. The issue has put Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda in catch-22 situation as his party high command is against this demand.
Although as a part of damage control exercise his close confidante Shadi Lal Batra has introduced private member bill in Rajya Sabha over the issue but his opponents are saying that when Haryana assembly can make amendment what is the need of putting it into Rajyasabha which they allege is only eyewash.
Naveen jindal, young M.P. of Congress party, who was forced by the panchyats to support their demand for amendement in the act was grilled by the party high command. Union tourism minister Kumari Shelja has also opposed the demand arguing that couples should be allowed to marry according to their wishes.
Bhupinder Singh Hoooda says that khaps will not be allowed to take law in their hands as they do not have any legal authority adding that if somebody does anything good for social cause we welcome it. There is no need of repeating it.
Government has enough power under the I.P.C. to deal with such elements provided it has the will power to act. National media is reporting the issue without knowing the factual position. Khaps and panchyats are two different bodies where khaps have historical background doing good social work feels former haryana D.G.of Police M.S.Malik whereas panchayat is gathering of few persons.
Even the allegations that Khaps issue fatwas for honour killings is debatable. Rowdy elements of the affected area issue such Talibanic fatwas and the successive governments have failed to take action against such elements fearing vote bank. Such elements needed to be handeled firmly.
National media is creating confusion by clubbing the words same gotra and inter-gotra marriages. Jats have only put their demand to prime minister and president of india and they have all the right to be heard. Even Kasab was allowed to present his defence.
Condeming Jats without listening their viewpoint is not justified, says Yoginder Dahiya , a political activist and Lawyer at Rohtak bar, adding that there is enough provision in the Hindu Marriage Act for amending it to ban same gotra marriages according to the customs and traditions of particular area. He said that same gotra marriage is sin as it is like marriage between sister and brother.
Shamsher Singh Nehra of Meham Chobisi area also supported the demand while asking the panchayats to put their viewpoint politely instead of threatening of gherao of politicians.
Sixty five year old judgement of Bombay high court is cited as Bhagwatgeeta by the media to declare same gotra marraige valid.Same gotra marriage legal, court had ruled 65 years ago by Bombay High court, says Jagmati Sangwan, in a leading English newspaper of the country.
Keeping in view the historical perspective and the contemporary situation in mind, questions or issues should be raised, says Dr. Ramesh Kumar Maddan, a researcher and political anlyist, adding that no doubt, she is raising the various socio-political issues from time to time and supporting such families against the Khap diktats.
But in addition to this, the fact cannot be denied that the Khap panchayats are existing since times immemorial. The media and the activists who are not very well known about the structure and functioning of Khap panchayats as well as the culture of rural society.
It is widely accepted fact that we are living in the information and technology era. There is a crisis of identity prevailing in the biradari regarding marriages in Haryana. Under the prevailing circumstances there is an urgent need to understand and analyse the communities and culture in the states particularly Haryana. We find a lot of difference in the style and functioning of life style.
With the breach in the principle of village and clan exogamy, due to this reason there is dissent and challenge on this front? The extra- judicial power and activity of the traditional panchayats have severe implications for the state, the state stands devalued, unable to protect its citizens or implement its own laws.
For the progress and development of any state or society, leadership is considered to be an important factor the more dynamic, articulate and assertive leadership is the more progress of the state or society is expected to be. It is sorry state of affairs that the academicians or the power holders are nor taking much pain for the solution of the community problems.
Hence the crisis is at its climax. It is the need of the hour to think and introspect in the prevailing situation and play an effective role for the survival, sustainability and suitability for the social system in the larger perspective.
If we look at the historical perspective ,the various sources of Laws are---customs, traditions, history ,public opinion, commentaries, judicial decisions based on customary law in that particular community, legislature, executive, judiciary and contemporary situations etc.
Because the Khap panchayat mobilises a large number of people on the basis of caste, community, kinship, gotra and villages, including persons from the neighbouring areas. By bringing in a wider biradari from outside the village, links which makes the panchayat look more powerful are activated; issues such as breaking of social taboos, customs, rituals and hierarchy are used as the strategy of mobilisation.
Youth and women usually the affected party are not allowed to raise their voice regarding their opinion. The question is raised age and experience should be respected in front of elders. These highly emotive issues succeeded in uniting people in Haryanvi society.
..........................................................................
cont....
http://www.merinews.com/article/the-khap-controversy-putting-jat-identity-in-crisis/15815143.shtml
The Khap controversy putting Jat identity in crisis
CJ: Pawan Kumar Bansal Mon, May 24, 2010 13:04:06 IST
THE HARDWORKING Jat community of Haryana, Delhi, Rajsthan and Western U.P. is facing serious identity crisis. The whole country, Union Law Minister Veerapa Moily, National Human Rights Commission, media, particularly the English press and electronic media and Congress party high command is up in arms against the Jats for demanding amendments in the Hindu Marriage Act banning marriages between the same gotra (sub-caste) and in the same village.
The National Human Rights Commission has commented that no one has the right to take law in thier own hands by violating an individuals right to life in the name of traditions. C.P.I {M} has even gone upto the extent of smelling conspiracy by the communal forces over the issue as its pilitbuearo member Neloopatal Basu has alleged while addressing a press conference at Chandigarh recently.
He alleged that Hindu communalism was being used to establish the supermacy of one particular religion in the country. adding that it is divisive game of reacationary forces and they must be isolated in the interest of social justice and rule of law.
Khaps are being projected more dangerous than Kasab. I may clarify that i am not holding brief for thier alleged fatwas of honour killings and breaking marriages between couples which they did not like and asking them to live like brother and sister even after several years of the marriage. I also do not agree to their demand of banning the marriages in same villages as in some parts of Haryana adjoining Rajsthan and in Rajssthan it is common practise. Even in home village of Om Parkash Chautala, this practise is common and D.R.Choudhary, member of Haryana administrative reforms commission of the village is married in the same village.
But certainly their demand for banning marriages between same gotra has overwhelming support cutting across caste lines. Mange Ram Sharma, president of all World Brahmin Sabha has also supported this demand adding that marriage between same gotra is sin and it is not the issue conmcerning only the jats.
Gujjjars have also supported this demand. Even former top cop K.P.S.Gill has also supported the demand with a rider that Panchayats should not take law into its hands. Even this demand has scientific and medical support as marriage in same gotra may lead to genetic problems. This is not only issue of Jats.
It is another thing that being a martial communtiy they have aggressively raised the issue. Congress M.P. from Sonepat Loksabha constituency Jitender Malik while supporting the demand has assured that he will bring private member bill in the house for this purpose.
Shadi Lal Batra, a close confident of Haryana Chief Minister , Bhupinder Singh Hooda has introduced a private member bill in the Rajya Sabha over the issue. I may iask where the champion of civil liberties and those condemning the Jats over the demand for amendment in the Hindu Marriage Act were when the judgement of the apex court in Shah Bano case was overpowered by making amendment in the constitution.
Even now Darul uloom has issued fatwa that working in banks and opting for insurance is against the teachings of islam. union minister for minorities Salman Khursheed has rightly said that he was a muslim and has bank account and insurance.
The media partcularly the national english press and electronic media is flooded with reports concerning khaps using the word talibani, fatwas and honour killings. In Haryana it has become a political issue with Om parkash Chautala of Indian National Lok Dal supporting the demand and even promising to bring private member bill in the state assembly for making amendemnet in the Hindu marriage act.
Yoga guru Ramdev has also supported the demand with a rider to panchyats not to take law into their hands. The issue has put Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda in catch-22 situation as his party high command is against this demand.
Although as a part of damage control exercise his close confidante Shadi Lal Batra has introduced private member bill in Rajya Sabha over the issue but his opponents are saying that when Haryana assembly can make amendment what is the need of putting it into Rajyasabha which they allege is only eyewash.
Naveen jindal, young M.P. of Congress party, who was forced by the panchyats to support their demand for amendement in the act was grilled by the party high command. Union tourism minister Kumari Shelja has also opposed the demand arguing that couples should be allowed to marry according to their wishes.
Bhupinder Singh Hoooda says that khaps will not be allowed to take law in their hands as they do not have any legal authority adding that if somebody does anything good for social cause we welcome it. There is no need of repeating it.
Government has enough power under the I.P.C. to deal with such elements provided it has the will power to act. National media is reporting the issue without knowing the factual position. Khaps and panchyats are two different bodies where khaps have historical background doing good social work feels former haryana D.G.of Police M.S.Malik whereas panchayat is gathering of few persons.
Even the allegations that Khaps issue fatwas for honour killings is debatable. Rowdy elements of the affected area issue such Talibanic fatwas and the successive governments have failed to take action against such elements fearing vote bank. Such elements needed to be handeled firmly.
National media is creating confusion by clubbing the words same gotra and inter-gotra marriages. Jats have only put their demand to prime minister and president of india and they have all the right to be heard. Even Kasab was allowed to present his defence.
Condeming Jats without listening their viewpoint is not justified, says Yoginder Dahiya , a political activist and Lawyer at Rohtak bar, adding that there is enough provision in the Hindu Marriage Act for amending it to ban same gotra marriages according to the customs and traditions of particular area. He said that same gotra marriage is sin as it is like marriage between sister and brother.
Shamsher Singh Nehra of Meham Chobisi area also supported the demand while asking the panchayats to put their viewpoint politely instead of threatening of gherao of politicians.
Sixty five year old judgement of Bombay high court is cited as Bhagwatgeeta by the media to declare same gotra marraige valid.Same gotra marriage legal, court had ruled 65 years ago by Bombay High court, says Jagmati Sangwan, in a leading English newspaper of the country.
Keeping in view the historical perspective and the contemporary situation in mind, questions or issues should be raised, says Dr. Ramesh Kumar Maddan, a researcher and political anlyist, adding that no doubt, she is raising the various socio-political issues from time to time and supporting such families against the Khap diktats.
But in addition to this, the fact cannot be denied that the Khap panchayats are existing since times immemorial. The media and the activists who are not very well known about the structure and functioning of Khap panchayats as well as the culture of rural society.
It is widely accepted fact that we are living in the information and technology era. There is a crisis of identity prevailing in the biradari regarding marriages in Haryana. Under the prevailing circumstances there is an urgent need to understand and analyse the communities and culture in the states particularly Haryana. We find a lot of difference in the style and functioning of life style.
With the breach in the principle of village and clan exogamy, due to this reason there is dissent and challenge on this front? The extra- judicial power and activity of the traditional panchayats have severe implications for the state, the state stands devalued, unable to protect its citizens or implement its own laws.
For the progress and development of any state or society, leadership is considered to be an important factor the more dynamic, articulate and assertive leadership is the more progress of the state or society is expected to be. It is sorry state of affairs that the academicians or the power holders are nor taking much pain for the solution of the community problems.
Hence the crisis is at its climax. It is the need of the hour to think and introspect in the prevailing situation and play an effective role for the survival, sustainability and suitability for the social system in the larger perspective.
If we look at the historical perspective ,the various sources of Laws are---customs, traditions, history ,public opinion, commentaries, judicial decisions based on customary law in that particular community, legislature, executive, judiciary and contemporary situations etc.
Because the Khap panchayat mobilises a large number of people on the basis of caste, community, kinship, gotra and villages, including persons from the neighbouring areas. By bringing in a wider biradari from outside the village, links which makes the panchayat look more powerful are activated; issues such as breaking of social taboos, customs, rituals and hierarchy are used as the strategy of mobilisation.
Youth and women usually the affected party are not allowed to raise their voice regarding their opinion. The question is raised age and experience should be respected in front of elders. These highly emotive issues succeeded in uniting people in Haryanvi society.
..........................................................................
cont....
In such a situation , there is an urgent necessity to amend the Act in the larger interest of the society ,state and system. Haryana is no Bombay or Goa where girls even in Western attires can freely roam on beaches without inviting anybodys attention. The Punjab and haryana high court while rejecting public interest litigations of some residents of Haryana for making amendments in the act banning same gotra marriage has commented that no tradition can violate the law. Agreed, hence the need for amendment in the act. It is argued that in case of conflict between a custom and a law it is the law that prevails, laws have been amended several times to suit the public and society as they are for the welfare of the society in a democratic country.
...............
It looks like only the online news website merinews.com has taken the pains to give true perspective of the Khap issues. English media is totally against Khaps/Jats.
RK^2
...............
It looks like only the online news website merinews.com has taken the pains to give true perspective of the Khap issues. English media is totally against Khaps/Jats.
RK^2
satyendra15
New member
Let us move towards development rather than supporting Khaps
Sir
Article is very good and knowlegable.
But still I dont see any reason for these Khaps to take law into their hands and kill innocent lovers.Not only this they create environment of hate so much so that parents kill their own kins.If thse Khaps are so concerened for the society then why they dont raise voices against child marriages which is still very prevalent in Rajasthan and Haryana, discrimination to the girl, dowry and so on. I cant comment in old times but today they are corrupt powerful people who act for their polictical, selfish motives. <O
></O>
Another point of yours that sex is now is source of entertainment may be valid but not relevant to intra gotra marriages issue, because whentwo people decide to marry, its not just sex but love that too against all odds created years before. Its high time we should as a community go aginst this Khaps diktat and so called "Talibanism (I think they are no less then Taliban if they take innocent lives that too brutually , in fact they are worse because they create such an environment that parents kill their own kin..TERRIBLE).
We should work at the rural level and instead of supporting Goonda acts of Khaps and old binding marriage issues , lets work for the development of the underprivileged in the areas like women upliftment, education, infrastructure development and so on. Let everyone live and love peacefully and freely.
Regards,
Satyendra S. Choudhary
Sir
Article is very good and knowlegable.
But still I dont see any reason for these Khaps to take law into their hands and kill innocent lovers.Not only this they create environment of hate so much so that parents kill their own kins.If thse Khaps are so concerened for the society then why they dont raise voices against child marriages which is still very prevalent in Rajasthan and Haryana, discrimination to the girl, dowry and so on. I cant comment in old times but today they are corrupt powerful people who act for their polictical, selfish motives. <O
></O>Another point of yours that sex is now is source of entertainment may be valid but not relevant to intra gotra marriages issue, because whentwo people decide to marry, its not just sex but love that too against all odds created years before. Its high time we should as a community go aginst this Khaps diktat and so called "Talibanism (I think they are no less then Taliban if they take innocent lives that too brutually , in fact they are worse because they create such an environment that parents kill their own kin..TERRIBLE).
We should work at the rural level and instead of supporting Goonda acts of Khaps and old binding marriage issues , lets work for the development of the underprivileged in the areas like women upliftment, education, infrastructure development and so on. Let everyone live and love peacefully and freely.
Regards,
Satyendra S. Choudhary
satyendra15
New member
Also pl dont equate khaps to Jats as I am a Jat from Sikar district but don't support Khaps Ideology
here is some very useful information on Khaps;
http://www.statemaster.com/encyclopedia/Sarv-Khap
RK^2
http://www.statemaster.com/encyclopedia/Sarv-Khap
RK^2
Last edited:
ravichaudhary
New member
Sir
Article is very good and knowlegable.
But still I dont see any reason for these Khaps to take law into their hands and kill innocent lovers.Not only this they create environment of hate so much so that parents kill their own kins.If thse Khaps are so concerened for the society then why they dont raise voices against child marriages which is still very prevalent in Rajasthan and Haryana, discrimination to the girl, dowry and so on. I cant comment in old times but today they are corrupt powerful people who act for their polictical, selfish motives. <O
Another point of yours that sex is now is source of entertainment may be valid but not relevant to intra gotra marriages issue, because whentwo people decide to marry, its not just sex but love that too against all odds created years before. Its high time we should as a community go aginst this Khaps diktat and so called "Talibanism (I think they are no less then Taliban if they take innocent lives that too brutually , in fact they are worse because they create such an environment that parents kill their own kin..TERRIBLE).
We should work at the rural level and instead of supporting Goonda acts of Khaps and old binding marriage issues , lets work for the development of the underprivileged in the areas like women upliftment, education, infrastructure development and so on. Let everyone live and love peacefully and freely.
Regards,
Satyendra S. Choudhary
Pretty strong language.
You are in the right section- History.
You do need to read up/study the Khap system of the jats.
Khaps do not have an ideology.
They are a social/political platform for the Jats. It is a consensus based platform.
Jats, indeed,members of any society/, are free to use other platforms,
The issue at hand is intra Goth marraige, which the jats traditionally consider to be incest. That is a jat " ideology' if you wish to use a term to denigrate a tradition.
From your post, you are supporting Intra- Goth marriage ( Marriage in the same goth).
Is this correct?
Ravi Chaudhary
PS- I have no difficulty with people expressing their views, however extreme they may be.
I am gong to caution those, who use derogatory terms like 'corrupt, selfish,taliban, ', etc in a broad brush, general way to denigrate the community, without them providing evidence for their claims.
Satyendra and others,
If you wish to abuse the community, be prepared to back up your claims.
Last edited:
ravichaudhary
New member
Article in Hindu May 27
http://beta.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/article439389.ece
Our system is democratic, claim khap reps
Staff Reporter
Share • print • T+ T+ • T-
Khap panchayat representatives are peeved that their judgments are being likened to those of the Taliban and they are being held responsible for the recent spurt in “honour killings” instigated by societal norms against same-caste marriages.
At a discussion here on Wednesday, a collective of khap panchayat representatives tried hard to dispel the negative public perception about their work and explained their relevance as a “de-centralised” form of democracy that best suits the ordinary man.
They were vehement that the dictat of “honour killing” had nothing to with khap panchayats. “No khap panchayats have ever ordered death for people for solemnising a same-gotra wedding. If there have been killings, those have been carried out by the families on their own. Those families could not bear the shame that their children inflicted on the family name,” said Master Rampal Dahiya, head of the Dahiya Khap.
Citing instances, he said: “In one case the couple (same-gotra wedding) were ordered to stay out of the village and since the father of one of them was seen as an accomplice in the forbidden match, he too was ordered to stay away for a couple of months. But the khaps do not prescribe death.”
Blaming the lack of knowledge and the incorrect inference about the working of the khap system, the representatives said the system is similar to the administrative and judicial system prevalent in the country.
“It is a parallel government, based on principles of truth, justice and fair play. There is no attention focused on the good work that the panchayats do,” said Chaudhary Ranjit Singh, secretary of the Dalal Khap.
Hawa Singh Sangwan, another khap representative, said: “Five or ten people coming together does not make a khap, nor does the khap assemble on its own. A khap has to be invited, they are like lawyers who deal with civil, criminal, judicial and social norms.”
Even as they tried hard to portray their image as that of a “democratic set-up” their condemnation of same-gotra weddings was severe and constant. “Anthropological as well as biological research has shed light on the disadvantages of same-gotra weddings,” said Diwan Singh, a social activist and environmentalist.
“A khap is an institution of local self-governance, there are secular khaps and caste khaps. It is not a formal set-up but an informal institution in the mind of people where everyone has the right to speak and take part in decision-making – unlike modern democracy where we can speak but not decide; so khaps enjoy confidence of people…that's why they are resilient,” explained Mr. Singh
He said the association of khap panchayats with honour killings has taken the attention away from the work that they do, including work like de-silting of ponds, digging wells or canals, building temples and schools.
“Social boycott and fines are the only methods used to enforce the decision or punish the violators. Decisions were generally enforced because they drew strength from participation of people in the process. There is no army or police for law enforcement,” said Mr. Singh.
In a bid to redefine their image as a catalyst for social change, he said: “Khaps show some social characteristics like they do not encourage sati, allow widow remarriage, there are no caste barriers and no atrocities on Dalits and other castes. It is ironic that while countries like Switzerland and the US are experimenting with decentralising authority and power, we are encouraging bureaucracy, where one man at the top has more powers than a collective of people.”
Keywords: Social issues, Khap panchayats, Democracy
http://beta.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/article439389.ece
Our system is democratic, claim khap reps
Staff Reporter
Share • print • T+ T+ • T-
Khap panchayat representatives are peeved that their judgments are being likened to those of the Taliban and they are being held responsible for the recent spurt in “honour killings” instigated by societal norms against same-caste marriages.
At a discussion here on Wednesday, a collective of khap panchayat representatives tried hard to dispel the negative public perception about their work and explained their relevance as a “de-centralised” form of democracy that best suits the ordinary man.
They were vehement that the dictat of “honour killing” had nothing to with khap panchayats. “No khap panchayats have ever ordered death for people for solemnising a same-gotra wedding. If there have been killings, those have been carried out by the families on their own. Those families could not bear the shame that their children inflicted on the family name,” said Master Rampal Dahiya, head of the Dahiya Khap.
Citing instances, he said: “In one case the couple (same-gotra wedding) were ordered to stay out of the village and since the father of one of them was seen as an accomplice in the forbidden match, he too was ordered to stay away for a couple of months. But the khaps do not prescribe death.”
Blaming the lack of knowledge and the incorrect inference about the working of the khap system, the representatives said the system is similar to the administrative and judicial system prevalent in the country.
“It is a parallel government, based on principles of truth, justice and fair play. There is no attention focused on the good work that the panchayats do,” said Chaudhary Ranjit Singh, secretary of the Dalal Khap.
Hawa Singh Sangwan, another khap representative, said: “Five or ten people coming together does not make a khap, nor does the khap assemble on its own. A khap has to be invited, they are like lawyers who deal with civil, criminal, judicial and social norms.”
Even as they tried hard to portray their image as that of a “democratic set-up” their condemnation of same-gotra weddings was severe and constant. “Anthropological as well as biological research has shed light on the disadvantages of same-gotra weddings,” said Diwan Singh, a social activist and environmentalist.
“A khap is an institution of local self-governance, there are secular khaps and caste khaps. It is not a formal set-up but an informal institution in the mind of people where everyone has the right to speak and take part in decision-making – unlike modern democracy where we can speak but not decide; so khaps enjoy confidence of people…that's why they are resilient,” explained Mr. Singh
He said the association of khap panchayats with honour killings has taken the attention away from the work that they do, including work like de-silting of ponds, digging wells or canals, building temples and schools.
“Social boycott and fines are the only methods used to enforce the decision or punish the violators. Decisions were generally enforced because they drew strength from participation of people in the process. There is no army or police for law enforcement,” said Mr. Singh.
In a bid to redefine their image as a catalyst for social change, he said: “Khaps show some social characteristics like they do not encourage sati, allow widow remarriage, there are no caste barriers and no atrocities on Dalits and other castes. It is ironic that while countries like Switzerland and the US are experimenting with decentralising authority and power, we are encouraging bureaucracy, where one man at the top has more powers than a collective of people.”
Keywords: Social issues, Khap panchayats, Democracy
ravichaudhary
New member
Comment sent to editor:
To The Editor
The Hindu
May 27, 2010
Dear Sir
Article: Our system is democratic, claim khap reps – The hindu May 27, 2010
Congratulations on responsible reporting.
This is the kind of reporting I would like to see. Giving the other persons point of view, and not just simply engaging in sensationalism.
The Khaps are just social and political platforms for the community. Khaps exist not just in the Jat community but also in the other communities Gujars, Ahirs etc. Panchayats exist at all levels, village, group of villages, 84 villages.
The Panchayats also exist by community within this geographical boundaries for various Jatis( castes).
The Khap Panchayat does not have an office, a bank account. A gathering can be called by anyone, do discuss issues of importance to the society.
Generally people who are called to duty for the panchayat, are elders and those who are respected in the society. It is a place where everyone can have their voice heard, get their concerns out.
The khap meeting were banned by the British after 18
57. Their leaders were hanged, or run over by steam rollers.
Meetings only started after independence.
The meetings concentrated on issues that affect society- getting rid of the dowry system, no spending huge amounts of money on marriages, education, setting up of school. The Jats encourage widow remarriage, and have done so since time immemorial. The Vedas and Jat customs have this practice, among others in common.
The Jats and their Khaps do not approve of or encourage killing.
What I write next is not to condone the incidents where a young couple got killed.
The practice of marriage is a highly emotive and charged issue. In such emotive and charged situations people make and take rash actions,. Families get upset, some more than others. When they get upset they take rash actions.,
It should be kept in mind that these were unfortunate tragic events. Everyone lost, the families of the victims, the community and indeed we as a people. One can and should empathize with the families who lost their loved ones. That empty space cannot be filled, for them that tragedy will live with them till they die- a punishment worse than death..
This was not a systemic failure, but the failure of a family who could not tolerate their children , doing what in their eyes was ‘incest”
Such events occur in all communities. Let us not be in such a rush to tarnish an entire tolerant, community for stray incidents. 99 .99 % of the marriages in the Jat communities do not end in such a result.
Let us try and learn from that, and not throw out the baby with the bathtub.
Ravi Chaudhary
Well done Ravi. It seems there are some newspapers which have started realising the other side of the story also. Most of the negative reporting so far has been by Times of India.
RK^2
Her Excellency, Smt. Pratibha Patil,
The President of India,
Rashter Pati Bhawan New Delhi
Subject: Controversy regarding Gotra System as followed among
Jat Community in India.
Hon’ble Madam,
I have the honour to write to you as under on the subject cited above and to request you for your kind perusal of the same with a view to help stop the vicious compaign in both electronic and print media in a planned and orchestrated manner against Jat Community and their customs that have been governing and regulating their behaviour and whole gamut of their social set up. I would like to draw your kind attention pointwise as detailed below:
1. Gotra System: It is a fact of history and common knowledge that Gotra system and the traditions of lineage have remained sanctified inter and intra community in the Indian Cultural ethos since vedic period of our history, established by our Rishis with a view to streamline and facilitate the working of the Indian society on a correct authopological, sociological and biologically scientific basis. This system has really stood all tests of the times and has kept our society free from all kinds of conflicts and feuds. It is logical, therefore, that every Northern Indian is proud of this Gotra System.
2. Gotra System is scientific based: Except for South India and some parts of North-East, the Gotra system is prevalent among all communities across the length and breadth of India. The system practised as such debars in every rural community the matrimonial relationship among same Gotra. This age-old and fool proof prescription is based on scientific principles that better and healthier progency can be ensured by making matrimonial alliances among people genetically diverse. Among the communities in which Intra-Gotra marriages take place, it has been noticed that procreative potency has decline to the extent that freaks are born out of such alliances. A solid example, in this regard, is that of the Parsi community in India in which the violation of the above genetic principle has shown adverse results. Their total population in India according to the 1991 census was 72634 which got reduced to 69241 in 2001 census. One more example in this case is that of a particular religion which
constitute hardly 20% of India’s total population, whereas almost 70% are eunnuchs from this religion in India due to not following the Gotra system. Moreover the African Lions living in one herd have suffered drastic decline of their population as well as are suffering from various diseases. Secondly in the absence of Gotra system more disabilities are also growing. So the Gotra system as practised in India, particularly in Jat community is completely a scientific one and debarring of 2-3 gotras for marriage purposes in the community is not difficult because 4800 gotra are at hand with the Jats. Thus, Gotra system is culturally sacred and scientifically a correct and healthy practice.
3. Gotra system and the Hindu marriage Act 1955: Throughout India people of different religious and castes follow different religious and social customs. But the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955 does not recognize such diversity of customs. It recognizes only 3 blood relations based on customary practices of South India. These are given in section 3 of the Act (i) Avoid total blood relation (ii) Avoid blood relation (iii) Avoid utereine blood relation. But this act does not recognize customary practices of North India and particularly of Jat community. In South India, particularly Brahamins have a custom to marry their sister’s children, father’s sister’s children and maternal uncle’s children. Whereas in North Indian, particularly in Jat community, these relations are treated equal to real brothers and sisters. It is clear that this Act was drafted by South Indian officers and detailed debate was not held on this Act in the parliament with the result that this Act is an incomplete Act. Before inceptioin of this Act, Gotra system was valid as per the existing laws.
The President of India,
Rashter Pati Bhawan New Delhi
Subject: Controversy regarding Gotra System as followed among
Jat Community in India.
Hon’ble Madam,
I have the honour to write to you as under on the subject cited above and to request you for your kind perusal of the same with a view to help stop the vicious compaign in both electronic and print media in a planned and orchestrated manner against Jat Community and their customs that have been governing and regulating their behaviour and whole gamut of their social set up. I would like to draw your kind attention pointwise as detailed below:
1. Gotra System: It is a fact of history and common knowledge that Gotra system and the traditions of lineage have remained sanctified inter and intra community in the Indian Cultural ethos since vedic period of our history, established by our Rishis with a view to streamline and facilitate the working of the Indian society on a correct authopological, sociological and biologically scientific basis. This system has really stood all tests of the times and has kept our society free from all kinds of conflicts and feuds. It is logical, therefore, that every Northern Indian is proud of this Gotra System.
2. Gotra System is scientific based: Except for South India and some parts of North-East, the Gotra system is prevalent among all communities across the length and breadth of India. The system practised as such debars in every rural community the matrimonial relationship among same Gotra. This age-old and fool proof prescription is based on scientific principles that better and healthier progency can be ensured by making matrimonial alliances among people genetically diverse. Among the communities in which Intra-Gotra marriages take place, it has been noticed that procreative potency has decline to the extent that freaks are born out of such alliances. A solid example, in this regard, is that of the Parsi community in India in which the violation of the above genetic principle has shown adverse results. Their total population in India according to the 1991 census was 72634 which got reduced to 69241 in 2001 census. One more example in this case is that of a particular religion which
constitute hardly 20% of India’s total population, whereas almost 70% are eunnuchs from this religion in India due to not following the Gotra system. Moreover the African Lions living in one herd have suffered drastic decline of their population as well as are suffering from various diseases. Secondly in the absence of Gotra system more disabilities are also growing. So the Gotra system as practised in India, particularly in Jat community is completely a scientific one and debarring of 2-3 gotras for marriage purposes in the community is not difficult because 4800 gotra are at hand with the Jats. Thus, Gotra system is culturally sacred and scientifically a correct and healthy practice.
3. Gotra system and the Hindu marriage Act 1955: Throughout India people of different religious and castes follow different religious and social customs. But the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955 does not recognize such diversity of customs. It recognizes only 3 blood relations based on customary practices of South India. These are given in section 3 of the Act (i) Avoid total blood relation (ii) Avoid blood relation (iii) Avoid utereine blood relation. But this act does not recognize customary practices of North India and particularly of Jat community. In South India, particularly Brahamins have a custom to marry their sister’s children, father’s sister’s children and maternal uncle’s children. Whereas in North Indian, particularly in Jat community, these relations are treated equal to real brothers and sisters. It is clear that this Act was drafted by South Indian officers and detailed debate was not held on this Act in the parliament with the result that this Act is an incomplete Act. Before inceptioin of this Act, Gotra system was valid as per the existing laws.
4. System of Khaps (¹æÂ) among Jats: Clusters of one Gotra villages or a group of different gotras of villages form a Khap. The literal meaning of the word Khap is kshatrap (ÿæ˜æÂ) which indicates a particular region of a khap which is based on ancient Indian tradition of demoractic republics. Thousand years back Rishi Panini has observed in his book. "Ashtadhayayi" (¥CUæŠææØè) ÁÅU ÛæÅU â´ƒææÌð - which means Jats organize themselves into federal republics without loss of time. The same system developed into Khap later on, which led to the birth of modern democracy. it was Jat king Harsha Vardhan Bains who consolidated these systems into Sarva Khap in the year 643 AD with its Headquarter at village Saurabha, Distt. Muzaffer Nagar (U.P.) where its complete old records are available. Scholars like Dr. M.C. Pardhan, Dr. Mon Fort, Dr. G.C. Dwivcdi, Dr. Bala Krishan Dabas among others, have conducted intensive research on the basis of this historical record and have produced several scholarly theses. Worthmentioning among these is Dr. M.C. Pradhan’s thesis “Political
system of the Northern Indian Jats”. There are many other books on the basis of these records such as “âßü¹æ ´¿æØÌ ·¤æ ÚUæCþUèØ ÂÚUæ·ý¤×”.
5. Adverse effect on the Jat Community due to Hindu Marriage Act 1955: It is well known that gotra system is the backbone of Jat community which form their social well being and it is only gotra system that weaves the whole fabric of their value system, the Samskaras (â´S·¤æÚU). As a result, the community has to avoid at least two gotras when matrimonial alliances take place. No Khap of a particular gortra can allow among itself as bride a girl belonging to a gotra within the Khap. Jat community recognize this to be very sacred and sanctified custom. Any attempt to violate these, customs, is opposed with all the strength of character. This social opposition bring the violaters (boys and girls of the same gotra) under tremendous psychological and social pressure so that in many cases they resort to the drastic step of committing suicide. As per the Jats’s traditions and culture these boys and girls are brothers and sisters who were blinded by the carnal passion for one another. But the media is projecting them as loving couples sordidly and thus encourages more and more boys and girls to fall in the same line of uncalled for. Moreover, the media has launched a well orchestrated compaign of branding the entire Jat community as Talibani. Whatever the media is doing in this context is only to malign the community, as there has never been any order issued or so called Fatwa by any Jat Khap within India. Therefore, I am enclosing an affidavit on behalf of Jat community in this connection. Kindly note that any self styled Pradhan can not be called Khap.
The right to take action on such social crimes rests with Khaps to discard such persons from the community, in the same manner as its rests with the Sikh Panth against those working against Sikhism. For example, in 1986 Sardar Surjit Singh Barnala while being the Chief Minister of Punjab, was declared a TANKHAIYA and was punished with cleaning shoes and utensils in a Gurudwara.
6. Is Jat a Hindu? The Hindu marriage Act 1955 has failed to accomodate the social traditions of Jat community with the result, the Jats have grudge against it. Otherwise about 80 Crore other Hindus have no complaint against this law. It means this Hindu Act suits other Hindus and was made for them only. The question therefore is, what is the religion of the Jats? The Hindu Granth Sakand Puran holds that the widow marriage was prevalent only among Sudras but Jas have been holding widow marriages as a solemon religious act since centuries. So according to such Hindu Granth the Jats are Sudra. But at the same time
National Second Backward Class Commission (Mandal Commission) says that all the castes in Sudhra Varna have been given reservation. But the Jats were not included in the reservation by this Commission. This means that Jats are not in Sudhra Varna conflicting with the above quoted observations. During 1934, Lahore High Court declared Jats as Sudra. On the other hand Britishers have declared Jats as a Martial Race. Swami Daya Nand not only said that Jats are a martial community but took a step further callig them as God. There are many conflicting views in different Hindu Granths such as Padam Puran, Bhavisha Puran and Chachnama etc. So under these conflicting views it is incumbent upon powers to determine where really the Jats belong.
7. Discriminations and injustice against Jats: From the above submissions, it is clear that partiality and discrimination has been practised against Jats both in Hindu literature and the media. The Govt. of India, right since 1947 has also been following the above line and no efforts were ever made to meet the aspirations of this community. This has all resulted into the rise of the feeling among Jat community that the Hindu Marriage Act 1955 does not belong to them as it fails to cover and incorporate their legitimate customary laws. It is an irony that the Act, instead of preserving the customary laws, leaves them outside its ambit only to be disregarded and ultimately broken by those bent upon pervailing social crimes. Customary laws are handed over from generation to generation in an oral manner much in the same way as the English Constitution which is still unwritten, and therefore, like the English Constitution they should also be made to hold ground and put in practice in India.
UN Declaration of 18th December 1992-Quote: In order to strengthen the cause of the minorities, the United Nations promulgated the “Declaration on the Rights of Persons belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities” on 18th Decembe 1922 proclaiming that: “States shall protect the existence of the National or Ethnic, Culture, Religious and Linguistic identity of minorities within their respective territories and encourage conditions for the promotion of that identity.”
Minority Commission has recognised Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains and Prasees ............. than why not the Jats?
8. The Role of Jats: It is a well-known fact that Jats have been making much more contributions than any other community in every field of life, be it sports, agriculture or during war. Moreover, they have played a great role in the preservation of India’s democratic system, Panchayati Raj System and Cultural heritage. The Jat community has always opposed
to any kind of dogmatism and conservatism. Hence, it is requested that this patriotic community may not be pushed to the margin and left to nurse a grouse which may take an ugly turn. Jats inhabit very large tracts of the country, spanning from Barmer to Bijnaur, from Kathuwa to Gwalior. Moreover, this is the only tract which is free from any kind of disturbances witnessed elsewhere in India. So, justice needs to be done to this community whose sole responsibility lies with the Govt. of India. 21st Century and progressive country does not mean that we should forget our culture or change our relations like calling brothers and sisters as loving couples. To keep this country united, it is necessary to give due respect to every regional culture. For example in South India ‘DHOTI’ is being put without an under knot (Langger) whereas in the Jat culture, those wearing Dhoti without an under knot (Langger) are called uncivilised or Lafangas.
9. Prayer: It is humbly prayed to do the needful for the community. It may be submitted that in no case would the Jat community tolerate marriages within the same Gotra. It is, therefore, prayed that necessary amendment in the Hindu Marriage Act 1955 may be brought about to preserve the Gotra/Khap system among Jats, as under:-
The following paras may be included into section 3 after sub-clause-IV in the said Act.
V) Jat Community has right to avoid at least two gotras (Self & Mother) for marrige alliances and it would be mandatory.
VI) Jat Community has right to uphold tradiations of Khap wherever prevailing this system in Jat Living region.
Thanking you in anticipation.
Yours faithfully,
Dated: 25-10-2009
Hawa Singh Sangwan (Ex. Comdt. C.R.P.F) Mob.- 09416056145
Encl: An Affidavit President - Akhil Bharitia Jat Aarakshan
Sangarsh Simiti Haryana
Copy To:-
National Women Commision
Dated:-28-03-2010
system of the Northern Indian Jats”. There are many other books on the basis of these records such as “âßü¹æ ´¿æØÌ ·¤æ ÚUæCþUèØ ÂÚUæ·ý¤×”.
5. Adverse effect on the Jat Community due to Hindu Marriage Act 1955: It is well known that gotra system is the backbone of Jat community which form their social well being and it is only gotra system that weaves the whole fabric of their value system, the Samskaras (â´S·¤æÚU). As a result, the community has to avoid at least two gotras when matrimonial alliances take place. No Khap of a particular gortra can allow among itself as bride a girl belonging to a gotra within the Khap. Jat community recognize this to be very sacred and sanctified custom. Any attempt to violate these, customs, is opposed with all the strength of character. This social opposition bring the violaters (boys and girls of the same gotra) under tremendous psychological and social pressure so that in many cases they resort to the drastic step of committing suicide. As per the Jats’s traditions and culture these boys and girls are brothers and sisters who were blinded by the carnal passion for one another. But the media is projecting them as loving couples sordidly and thus encourages more and more boys and girls to fall in the same line of uncalled for. Moreover, the media has launched a well orchestrated compaign of branding the entire Jat community as Talibani. Whatever the media is doing in this context is only to malign the community, as there has never been any order issued or so called Fatwa by any Jat Khap within India. Therefore, I am enclosing an affidavit on behalf of Jat community in this connection. Kindly note that any self styled Pradhan can not be called Khap.
The right to take action on such social crimes rests with Khaps to discard such persons from the community, in the same manner as its rests with the Sikh Panth against those working against Sikhism. For example, in 1986 Sardar Surjit Singh Barnala while being the Chief Minister of Punjab, was declared a TANKHAIYA and was punished with cleaning shoes and utensils in a Gurudwara.
6. Is Jat a Hindu? The Hindu marriage Act 1955 has failed to accomodate the social traditions of Jat community with the result, the Jats have grudge against it. Otherwise about 80 Crore other Hindus have no complaint against this law. It means this Hindu Act suits other Hindus and was made for them only. The question therefore is, what is the religion of the Jats? The Hindu Granth Sakand Puran holds that the widow marriage was prevalent only among Sudras but Jas have been holding widow marriages as a solemon religious act since centuries. So according to such Hindu Granth the Jats are Sudra. But at the same time
National Second Backward Class Commission (Mandal Commission) says that all the castes in Sudhra Varna have been given reservation. But the Jats were not included in the reservation by this Commission. This means that Jats are not in Sudhra Varna conflicting with the above quoted observations. During 1934, Lahore High Court declared Jats as Sudra. On the other hand Britishers have declared Jats as a Martial Race. Swami Daya Nand not only said that Jats are a martial community but took a step further callig them as God. There are many conflicting views in different Hindu Granths such as Padam Puran, Bhavisha Puran and Chachnama etc. So under these conflicting views it is incumbent upon powers to determine where really the Jats belong.
7. Discriminations and injustice against Jats: From the above submissions, it is clear that partiality and discrimination has been practised against Jats both in Hindu literature and the media. The Govt. of India, right since 1947 has also been following the above line and no efforts were ever made to meet the aspirations of this community. This has all resulted into the rise of the feeling among Jat community that the Hindu Marriage Act 1955 does not belong to them as it fails to cover and incorporate their legitimate customary laws. It is an irony that the Act, instead of preserving the customary laws, leaves them outside its ambit only to be disregarded and ultimately broken by those bent upon pervailing social crimes. Customary laws are handed over from generation to generation in an oral manner much in the same way as the English Constitution which is still unwritten, and therefore, like the English Constitution they should also be made to hold ground and put in practice in India.
UN Declaration of 18th December 1992-Quote: In order to strengthen the cause of the minorities, the United Nations promulgated the “Declaration on the Rights of Persons belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities” on 18th Decembe 1922 proclaiming that: “States shall protect the existence of the National or Ethnic, Culture, Religious and Linguistic identity of minorities within their respective territories and encourage conditions for the promotion of that identity.”
Minority Commission has recognised Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains and Prasees ............. than why not the Jats?
8. The Role of Jats: It is a well-known fact that Jats have been making much more contributions than any other community in every field of life, be it sports, agriculture or during war. Moreover, they have played a great role in the preservation of India’s democratic system, Panchayati Raj System and Cultural heritage. The Jat community has always opposed
to any kind of dogmatism and conservatism. Hence, it is requested that this patriotic community may not be pushed to the margin and left to nurse a grouse which may take an ugly turn. Jats inhabit very large tracts of the country, spanning from Barmer to Bijnaur, from Kathuwa to Gwalior. Moreover, this is the only tract which is free from any kind of disturbances witnessed elsewhere in India. So, justice needs to be done to this community whose sole responsibility lies with the Govt. of India. 21st Century and progressive country does not mean that we should forget our culture or change our relations like calling brothers and sisters as loving couples. To keep this country united, it is necessary to give due respect to every regional culture. For example in South India ‘DHOTI’ is being put without an under knot (Langger) whereas in the Jat culture, those wearing Dhoti without an under knot (Langger) are called uncivilised or Lafangas.
9. Prayer: It is humbly prayed to do the needful for the community. It may be submitted that in no case would the Jat community tolerate marriages within the same Gotra. It is, therefore, prayed that necessary amendment in the Hindu Marriage Act 1955 may be brought about to preserve the Gotra/Khap system among Jats, as under:-
The following paras may be included into section 3 after sub-clause-IV in the said Act.
V) Jat Community has right to avoid at least two gotras (Self & Mother) for marrige alliances and it would be mandatory.
VI) Jat Community has right to uphold tradiations of Khap wherever prevailing this system in Jat Living region.
Thanking you in anticipation.
Yours faithfully,
Dated: 25-10-2009
Hawa Singh Sangwan (Ex. Comdt. C.R.P.F) Mob.- 09416056145
Encl: An Affidavit President - Akhil Bharitia Jat Aarakshan
Sangarsh Simiti Haryana
Copy To:-
National Women Commision
Dated:-28-03-2010
ravinderjeet
New member
sombody named sinhaa is releasing a film named "khaap". wich shows that some 50 years ago these khaap started in haryana and they banned the marriage within khaap and started killing couples for difeynig them. fully i dont know but hoshiyaar people started making money out of this khaap war.and many jat actors are part of this film.
ravichaudhary
New member
could you get his contact details ?
Phone number, e mail etc.
We need to educate him!
Ravi Chaudhary
ravichaudhary
New member
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/...inha-all-set-for-Khap/articleshow/6014187.cms
Ajai Sinha all set for 'Khap'
KUNAL M SHAH , MUMBAI MIRROR, Jun 5, 2010, 01.03am IST
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Tags:Manoj Pahwa|Khap|Mohnish Behl|Ajai Sinha
A still from Khap
A still from Khap
Director Ajai Sinha — best known for his TV shows Haasratein, Astitva and Ghar Ek Sapna — is all set to complete his directorial venture tentatively titled Khap.
Incidentally the film is based on the controversial Khap community based in the remote villages of Haryana. The film stars Om Puri, Manoj Pahwa, Mohnish Behl, Yuvika Chowdhury, Govind Namdev, Ravi Jhankal, Anuradha Paudwal and newcomer Sartaj Gill.
Ajai Sinha said, “I had read about the killing of Manoj and Babli three years ago and I had decided to make a film on it. I agree that some people do not believe in getting married within the same gotra, but there is absolutely no justification for killing someone for this.
There are numerous other cases just like the Babli and Manoj case and I have shown that in my film. The Khap community was created some 50 years ago and is made up of around 40 villages. They believe that no one should marry within the Khap.”
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Ajai Sinha all set for 'Khap'
KUNAL M SHAH , MUMBAI MIRROR, Jun 5, 2010, 01.03am IST
Share on Yahoo Buzz!
Share on Twitter
Del.icio.us Facebook
Tags:Manoj Pahwa|Khap|Mohnish Behl|Ajai Sinha
A still from Khap
A still from Khap
Director Ajai Sinha — best known for his TV shows Haasratein, Astitva and Ghar Ek Sapna — is all set to complete his directorial venture tentatively titled Khap.
Incidentally the film is based on the controversial Khap community based in the remote villages of Haryana. The film stars Om Puri, Manoj Pahwa, Mohnish Behl, Yuvika Chowdhury, Govind Namdev, Ravi Jhankal, Anuradha Paudwal and newcomer Sartaj Gill.
Ajai Sinha said, “I had read about the killing of Manoj and Babli three years ago and I had decided to make a film on it. I agree that some people do not believe in getting married within the same gotra, but there is absolutely no justification for killing someone for this.
There are numerous other cases just like the Babli and Manoj case and I have shown that in my film. The Khap community was created some 50 years ago and is made up of around 40 villages. They believe that no one should marry within the Khap.”
Follow us on Twitter for more stories
ravichaudhary
New member
Honour bound
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, Hindustan Times
Email Author
Mumbai, June 06, 2010
First Published: 12:50 IST(6/6/2010)
Last Updated: 13:48 IST(6/6/2010)
Print
My first wife, Seema, was a Kapoor but my father who was a Kapoor himself, had no objections to the match even though she was almost like a cousin. For that matter, my family didn’t even object to Nandita (his second wife) despite her being a Bengali,” points out Om Puri, who is currently shooting for a film that revolves around the honour killings in Haryana that have been grabbing headlines.
The veteran actor insists that the killing of youngsters who defy parental dictates to marry within the same gotra (caste) or khap (a union of about 40 odd villages formed over half a century ago ruled by a Maha Panch) is a recent phenomenon.
“I grew up in Punjab and though there were times when one’s choice of a life partner may have sparked off family rows, I don’t recall ever hearing of parents slaughtering their offspring,” he points out. “Such instances only came to light in the last decade. Why should our bade-buzurg (elders) be allowed to take a life only because traditional beliefs were defied?”
TV to film
That’s a concern that producer-director Ajai Sinha shares too. The king of TRPs, with superhit shows like Hasratein, Astitva and Ghar Ek Sapna, Sinha was drawn to make the transition to the big screen again, after the disastrous Bachelors, because he wants such cold-hearted killings to stop, pronto.
“I’m not pressing for a change in the law. All I’m saying is that to murder someone because of some distant connection is senseless. Hey, on those grounds one could argue that since mankind can be traced back to Adam and Eve we are all brothers and sisters?” argues Sinha, who has invested his own money into the project so he will not have to wait eternally for his film to release.
At the end of 26 days, he has just five days work remaining and about three songs to be shot. “I’m look towards a July-August release,” he says.
That’s pretty good going given that he started work on the script only last November and went on the floors on April 26 after waiting a couple of months for Om Puri’s dates.
Script is King
Besides Puri, the film also features Mohnish Behl, Govind Namdeo, Anuradha Patel and a couple of new faces. Wouldn’t a few more star names have made it easier to see the film?
“May be but big stars would insist on changes in the story. And that can’t happen in this case because even the Prime Minister and the President haven’t been able to bring about any changes in this on-going story. The system wil change only when attitudes change,” he reasons.
His film is rooted in reality without revealing any names, with stories culled from senior journalists and newspaper clippings. But Sinha is quick to point out that it is not a dark true-life drama. “It’s a love story with eight songs and all the commercial masala,” he asserts.
And for the moment has no name still. “I want to go with Khap—The Story Of An Honour Killing. I’ve registered the tile but haven’t got it yet,” says Sinha.
“Lights…Camera… Action!” The film without a name continues through another take.
Fact file
In March this year, five were given the death sentence for murdering newly weds, Manoj and Babli, who belonged to their family. It’s only in this case of honour killing so far where the court has given its verdict, capital punishment, to the accused.
According to a recent study, there have been over a 100 honour killings in a year alone in Delhi, UP and Haryana.
The common thread that runs through most honour killings is the decision of either partner to find their own match choose rather than letting the family decide.
Till a few years ago, cases were reported only from small towns and villages, but, today, even cities are falling prey to the phenomenon.
http://www.hindustantimes.com/Honour-bound/Article1-553853.aspx
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, Hindustan Times
Email Author
Mumbai, June 06, 2010
First Published: 12:50 IST(6/6/2010)
Last Updated: 13:48 IST(6/6/2010)
My first wife, Seema, was a Kapoor but my father who was a Kapoor himself, had no objections to the match even though she was almost like a cousin. For that matter, my family didn’t even object to Nandita (his second wife) despite her being a Bengali,” points out Om Puri, who is currently shooting for a film that revolves around the honour killings in Haryana that have been grabbing headlines.
The veteran actor insists that the killing of youngsters who defy parental dictates to marry within the same gotra (caste) or khap (a union of about 40 odd villages formed over half a century ago ruled by a Maha Panch) is a recent phenomenon.
“I grew up in Punjab and though there were times when one’s choice of a life partner may have sparked off family rows, I don’t recall ever hearing of parents slaughtering their offspring,” he points out. “Such instances only came to light in the last decade. Why should our bade-buzurg (elders) be allowed to take a life only because traditional beliefs were defied?”
TV to film
That’s a concern that producer-director Ajai Sinha shares too. The king of TRPs, with superhit shows like Hasratein, Astitva and Ghar Ek Sapna, Sinha was drawn to make the transition to the big screen again, after the disastrous Bachelors, because he wants such cold-hearted killings to stop, pronto.
“I’m not pressing for a change in the law. All I’m saying is that to murder someone because of some distant connection is senseless. Hey, on those grounds one could argue that since mankind can be traced back to Adam and Eve we are all brothers and sisters?” argues Sinha, who has invested his own money into the project so he will not have to wait eternally for his film to release.
At the end of 26 days, he has just five days work remaining and about three songs to be shot. “I’m look towards a July-August release,” he says.
That’s pretty good going given that he started work on the script only last November and went on the floors on April 26 after waiting a couple of months for Om Puri’s dates.
Script is King
Besides Puri, the film also features Mohnish Behl, Govind Namdeo, Anuradha Patel and a couple of new faces. Wouldn’t a few more star names have made it easier to see the film?
“May be but big stars would insist on changes in the story. And that can’t happen in this case because even the Prime Minister and the President haven’t been able to bring about any changes in this on-going story. The system wil change only when attitudes change,” he reasons.
His film is rooted in reality without revealing any names, with stories culled from senior journalists and newspaper clippings. But Sinha is quick to point out that it is not a dark true-life drama. “It’s a love story with eight songs and all the commercial masala,” he asserts.
And for the moment has no name still. “I want to go with Khap—The Story Of An Honour Killing. I’ve registered the tile but haven’t got it yet,” says Sinha.
“Lights…Camera… Action!” The film without a name continues through another take.
Fact file
In March this year, five were given the death sentence for murdering newly weds, Manoj and Babli, who belonged to their family. It’s only in this case of honour killing so far where the court has given its verdict, capital punishment, to the accused.
According to a recent study, there have been over a 100 honour killings in a year alone in Delhi, UP and Haryana.
The common thread that runs through most honour killings is the decision of either partner to find their own match choose rather than letting the family decide.
Till a few years ago, cases were reported only from small towns and villages, but, today, even cities are falling prey to the phenomenon.
http://www.hindustantimes.com/Honour-bound/Article1-553853.aspx
satyendra15
New member
I wish this movie shows true facts , well publicized and must be shown to all those who have blind faith in Khaps and all those who still beleive in "Honour Killing"
rakeshsehrawat
New member
Tu jaroor dekhiye
Ar 200 ali ticket de ke dekhiye
Musalman aur baki jatiyo mein HONOUR KILLING bhi khap karwati hogi?
meerasansanwal
New member
its a well balanced article wid indepth analysis of social traditions, its significance . thanks 4 putting it.