The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989

The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, was enacted to protect individuals belonging to SC/ST communities from caste-based discrimination, violence, and exploitation. It mandates stringent punishments for offences committed against these communities and provides mechanisms for their protection and rehabilitation.

Key Features of the Act

• Definition of Atrocities: The Act defines various offences, including physical violence, verbal abuse, social boycott, and denial of access to public places, committed against SC/ST individuals.
  • Punishments: Offenders can face imprisonment ranging from six months to life, depending on the severity of the offence.
• Anticipatory Bail: The Act disallows anticipatory bail for offences under its purview, ensuring that accused individuals cannot evade arrest before trial.
• Special Courts: Designated special courts are established to expedite the trial of cases under the Act.
• Protection and Rehabilitation: Victims are entitled to protection, legal aid, and compensation.

State-wise Statistics (2022):

Note: Data is based on available reports and may vary.

Reporting Mechanisms and Support

• Filing a Complaint: Victims or witnesses can file a First Information Report (FIR) at the nearest police station or approach the SC/ST Protection Cell in their state.
• National Helpdesk: The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment operates a National Helpdesk for the Prevention of Atrocities on SC/ST members. It provides assistance and guidance on legal processes and victim support.
• Compensation and Rehabilitation: Victims are entitled to compensation as per the guidelines issued by the National and State Commissions for SC/STs. Additionally, rehabilitation programmes are available to support victims in their recovery and reintegration.

FAQs – SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989

Q. What is the purpose of this Act?

A. To protect Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) from caste-based violence, discrimination, and humiliation.

Q. Who is protected under this Act?

A. Only individuals officially recognised as Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe by the government.

Q. What is an "atrocity"?

A. Any act like beating, abusing, insulting by caste name, forcing to eat waste, sexual assault, or preventing entry into public places.

Q. Who can be punished under this law?

A. Any person (usually from a non-SC/ST background) who commits a listed offence against SC/ST members.

Q. What is the punishment under this Act?

A. Imprisonment from 6 months to life, depending on the crime.

Q. Can the accused get anticipatory bail?

A. No. The law disallows anticipatory bail for offences under this Act.

Q. Is it only for physical violence?

A. No. It also covers verbal abuse, social boycott, discrimination, harassment, etc.

Q. What if the atrocity is committed by a government officer?

A. Public servants misusing power can also be punished under this Act.

Q. Are false complaints a problem under this Act?

A. Yes, sometimes. But the Supreme Court has allowed police to check the complaint before arrest.

Q. Can women file cases under this law?

A. Yes, SC/ST women facing caste-based sexual harassment or violence are protected.

Q. Are there special courts under this Act?

A. Yes, Special Courts are created for fast trials in these cases.

Q. What protection is given to victims?

A. Victims are given police protection, legal aid, and financial compensation.

Q. How can one file a case under this Act?

A. File an FIR at the nearest police station or approach the SC/ST Protection Cell.

Q. What happens if the police don’t register the complaint?

A. You can complain to higher officers, the District Collector, or the National/State SC/ST Commission.

Q. Is this Act applicable in rural areas only?

A. No, it is applicable all over India, both rural and urban.

Q. Can an SC/ST person also be punished under this Act?

A. No, this law is meant to protect SC/STs, not to act against them.

Q. What is a social boycott?

A. Refusing to interact, sell goods, or cooperate with someone due to their caste. This is punishable under the Act.

Q. Can this Act be used in workplace harassment?

A. Yes, if the harassment is caste-based.

Q. Does this Act apply to private disputes too?

A. Only if the offence is motivated by caste-based bias or discrimination.

Q. What if a victim belongs to a Scheduled Tribe in a Scheduled Area?

A. They are equally protected, and more attention is given in tribal regions for proper implementation.