SC calls 'Khatta Panchayat' in marriages of consenting adults illegal

The Supreme Court on Tuesday banned any interference by illegal assemblies like 'Khatta Panchayat' (Kangaroo court) in marriages, terming the intrusions as “absolutely illegal.” This order is likely to come across as a relief for inter-caste couples. It is up to the courts to decide legally whether a marriage is null and void, or if children are legitimate or illegitimate, Chief Justice Dipak Misra said adding, “no other person or group” have the right to intervene.