Bill in Parliament soon to curb honour killings: Veerappa Moily

Government is planning to bring a bill in the Monsoon Session of Parliament next month to provide for deterrent punishment for 'honour' killings.

"We have already finalised a draft and the bill should come in the next session," Law Minister M Veerappa Moily told reporters.

He said that the bill envisages amendments to several related acts, including the Evidence Act and the onus would be on the accused to prove their innocence.

His comments came on a day when the Supreme Court, taking note of the recent spurt in 'honour' killings, sought response from the Union Government and eight States on steps taken to prevent such incidents.