Headline
The Rajasthan High Court stated that use of non-caste-specific words does not come under SC/ST Act.
Summary
The Rajasthan High Court dropped the charges under the SC/ST Act against 4 men who were accused for using non-caste-specific derogatory words against public officials inspecting encroachments. Justice Birendra Kumar stated that the words used does not show any caste reference or intention to be embarrassed based on caste, while upholding charges under other IPC sections .
Key Facts
- Case Name: Achal Singh & Ors. vs. State of Rajasthan & Anr.
- Judge Name: Justice Birendra Kumar.
- In 2011, Jaisalmer public officials inspecting the intrusion were abused verbally.
- SC/ST Act charges were dropped due to lack of caste-specific abuse and independent witnesses.
- Charges under IPC Sections 353 and 332 for blocking public duty were upheld.
Legal Insights
- The application of the SC/ST Act is only when derogatory words explicitly related to caste and are used with intention to degrade an SC/ST member in public view.
- Non-caste-specific humiliation and lack of evidence in public view nullify SC/ST Act applicability.
Impact
This judgment narrows the extent of the SC/ST Act, by making sure that it is applied only in cases with clear caste-based abuse or discrimination.
Why It Matters
The decision shows the significance of intent and evidence in deciding the applicability of strict caste-based laws.
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