Policing On Atrocities Against Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in Bharat- Problems and Perspective.

Abstract

Historically, India has rigid caste hierarchy that relegated marginalized specific communities, forcing them to the periphery of social and economic life. In spite of the robust legislations on atrocities against SCs and STs, communities continue to endure social discrimination evidenced by thousands of Pending atrocity trials. National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data from 2026 highlights a huge pendency of atrocities, with over 1.44 lakh cases involving SCs and 23,000 involving STs seeking justice. This paper evaluates the implementation machinery of the Act. It is also needful to examine the evolution of legal frameworks through the landmark 2015 and 2018 Amendments. The evidence suggests a critical need to study the recent procedural shifts under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2025 with respect to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. Hence there is a need to evaluate the implementation machinery, Various forms of Atrocities, systemic lacunae, Judicial Positivism with respect to The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act,1989. This paper highlights effective strategies for strict implementation, in view of the upliftment of the oppressed communities. This study underscores the importance of the support in achieving true empowerment for SC/ST. My analysis focuses on to address the challenges of enforcement and navigate the contentious debate between the Act’s effectiveness and its alleged misuse. this study proposes strategic recommendations to ensure inclusive development, social justice and true empowerment for these oppressed groups. This paper proposes strategic recommendations, for the judiciary and police to ensure inclusive development, social justice, and the restoration of dignity for India’s most oppressed groups.