Inequality & Caste-Based Crime In India, With Special Reference To SC & ST
- YourLawArticle
- Jun 4
- 1 min read
Written by: Ghadage Santosh Shrimant Rao, L.L.M, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj University, Panvel, Navi Mumbai
&
Dr Pankaj Dwivedi, Associate Professor, Department of Law, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj University, Panvel, Navi Mumbai
Abstract
The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, is among India's most progressive anti-discrimination statutes. However, its effectiveness is hampered by inconsistent enforcement, systemic bias, and political indifference. Despite increasing reports of caste-based violence, conviction rates remain low, and victims face severe risks in pursuing justice. This paper analyses the implementation gaps through judicial trends, administrative shortcomings, and societal resistance. It highlights the need for caste-neutral investigations, expedited legal proceedings, public legal awareness, structured administrative reviews, and robust victim support systems. The paper argues that without institutional commitment and accountability, the PoA Act risks becoming a performative law with minimal impact. By offering clear and actionable recommendations, this study provides a roadmap to reinvigorate the statute’s enforcement and strengthen protection mechanisms for marginalised communities. It underlines the necessity of political will, bureaucratic responsiveness, and grassroots legal empowerment in translating legal rights into lived realities. The analysis is grounded in official data, judicial decisions, and policy reports, making a case for urgent and focused reforms to restore the law’s credibility and effectiveness.
Keywords: PoA Act, caste discrimination, conviction rate, fast-track courts, victim protection
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