SC revokes its 2018 verdict which diluted provisions of arrest under SC/ST Act

The Supreme Court on Tuesday (October 1) revoked its directions given in the March 20, 2018 verdict that had virtually diluted provisions of arrest under the SC/ST Act.

A bench of justices comprising Arun Mishra, BR Gavai and MR Shah said that the struggle of people belonging to the Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes (SC/ST) for equality is still not over in the country.

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The bench said that SC/ST people still face untouchability, abuse and are treated as social outcasts. The apex court further said that the Constitution provides for the protection of SC/ST people under Article 15 of the Constitution, but they still face social abuse and discrimination.

Dealing with the misuse of provisions of the SC/ST Act and lodging of false cases, the bench said that it is not due to the caste system but due to human failure of compliance with the law.

(With inputs from agencies)