Karnataka Criminalises Social Boycott with Landmark 2025 Law

Karnataka Social Boycott Prohibition Bill Reinforces Constitutional Dignity

In a significant step against informal social exclusion, the Karnataka Legislative Assembly has passed the Karnataka Social Boycott (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Bill, 2025 , redefining social boycott as a criminal offence rather than a customary or community matter. The legislation addresses long-standing practices where families are collectively ostracised from village life through informal caste or community decisions.

What the New Law Provides

Passed on December 18, 2025 , the Bill criminalises any act of social boycott imposed by caste panchayats, community bodies, or groups acting collectively. It prescribes imprisonment of up to three years , a fine of up to ₹1 lakh , or both. The government has linked the law directly to constitutional values of dignity, equality, and fraternity , noting that existing laws were insufficient to curb such practices.

Broad Definition of Social Boycott

The law defines social boycott as any oral or written act that results in collective exclusion within a community. This includes denial of employment, business, social interaction, access to temples, burial grounds, schools, hospitals, marriages, or funerals. The Bill recognises boycott as a form of collective punishment , sustained through coordinated withdrawal of social and economic support.

Beyond Caste-Based Exclusion

While caste panchayats are a key focus, the Bill goes further by recognising boycotts based on morality, political views, inter-caste or inter-faith relationships, sexuality, or social behaviour . This widens its scope to address evolving forms of informal social control in rural and semi-urban Karnataka.

Enforcement Mechanism

The offence is cognisable , allowing police to act suo motu. The law introduces Social Boycott Prohibition Officers (Group A rank) to assist victims and support prosecution. Meetings convened to impose boycotts are deemed unlawful assemblies.

What to Note for Exams?

• Karnataka Social Boycott Bill passed in December 2025

• Punishment: up to 3 years imprisonment and ₹1 lakh fine

• Offence declared cognisable

• Inspired partly by Maharashtra’s 2016 law

Significance

The law marks a strong assertion that community customs cannot override constitutional rights . Its success will depend on consistent enforcement and the state’s willingness to challenge entrenched informal power structures.