SC/ST Act

The Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act is a central legislation enacted to prevent specific crimes against members of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes and to provide for the establishment of special courts for the trial of such offences and for the relief and rehabilitation of the victims.

Why it matters

Provides a legal framework to address historical social discrimination and violence against marginalized communities.
Establishes a mechanism for legal protection, including the creation of special courts for speedy trial and the provision of compensatory relief to victims.
Mandates the state to ensure the protection of rights and dignity of SC/ST individuals, reinforcing constitutional safeguards against untouchability and exploitation.

How it is asked

Focus on the legal provisions regarding the definition of atrocities, the role of special courts, the procedural safeguards for victims, and the constitutional basis under Article 17 and Article 46.

In the syllabus

Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections GS2

In the news

Bharatpur Dalit Attack Investigation 24 August

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