Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act

The Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, is Indian legislation designed to prevent discrimination, violence, and atrocities against marginalized communities, specifically Scheduled Castes (Dalits) and Scheduled Tribes. It aims to protect their rights, promote equality, and ensure swift justice for offenses like abuse, discrimination, and bodily harm. The law mandates strict penalties for offenders and emphasizes the need for special safeguards and proactive measures to uplift these historically oppressed groups, fostering social justice and safeguarding their dignity in society.