Introduction to the SC/ST Act
An Act commonly known as the SC/ST Act or the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act was passed by the Government of India in 1989. The main purpose of this law is to safeguard the interests of the deprived sections of the society namely, the Scheduled Castes (SC) and the Scheduled Tribes (ST) against any discrimination, exploitation and atrocities committed against them. This all-inclusive blog discusses the SC/ST Act in depth; its applicability, effect on ground realities and the hurdles before it.
Historical Context and Need for the SC/ST Act
Historical Oppression
The SC and the ST communities have been the target of severe social boycott and discrimination for centuries in India. In the ancient period, these communities were treated as untouchables, were forced to do bonded labour and were deprived of all the rights of humanity. In 1950, the Constitution of India was adopted with the hope to end this social evil by providing multiple safeguards in its favour.
Inadequate Protection
However, the atrocities committed against the SCs and STs did not cease. The then existing laws were found insufficient to tackle the problem. There was an urgent need to enact a separate law which could provide stronger safeguards and ensure delivery of justice to the victims.
Enactment of the SC/ST Act
Aggravated by the above twin problems, the Parliament of India finally enacted the SC/ST Act 1989. The main objective of this Act is to prevent the atrocities against the SCs and STs; to safeguard and promote their interests and to ensure their dignity and to provide for Special Courts for the trial of offences against them.
