Senior advocate Lajapathi Roy has made a compelling appeal for more legal professionals to step forward and take up the crucial role of special public prosecutors in special courts that handle cases under the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. This call to action was delivered during a significant discussion on caste atrocities in southern Tamil Nadu, organized by the non-governmental organization Evidence.
The Need for Dedicated Legal Expertise
Roy emphasized that in every district, dedicated and specially trained lawyers should serve as the backbone of effective legal intervention in atrocity cases. He stressed that properly trained and socially committed lawyers are absolutely essential to ensure justice for victims and to strengthen the overall implementation of the Act. Without such dedicated legal expertise, the fight against caste-based violence remains incomplete.
Reviewing Institutional Gaps and Rising Violence
The discussion meticulously reviewed existing gaps in institutional responses to caste atrocities and underscored the urgent need for coordinated legal action to counter the growing instances of caste-based violence. A Kadhir, the founder of Evidence, highlighted that caste atrocities are increasingly occurring across multiple districts in Tamil Nadu, including Madurai, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Theni, Pudukottai, Sivaganga, Ramanathapuram, Dindigul, Virudhunagar, and Tenkasi.
Kadhir pointed out that various forms of violence, such as caste-based murders, physical attacks, honor crimes, and rapes, are escalating day by day. He expressed concern that despite the existence of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, there has been no significant decline in these crimes. Furthermore, he noted that caste-based forces that incite caste sentiments are growing in number, and adequate action is not being taken against them.
Alarming Statistics and Regional Data
Providing specific data, Kadhir revealed that between May and August 2025, a substantial number of cases were registered under the SC/ST Act in various districts: 37 cases in Madurai, 54 in Theni, 22 in Sivaganga, 35 in Thanjavur and Pudukottai combined, 14 in Karur, and 11 in Ramanathapuram.
Citing data from 2021 to 2023, he provided further insights into the crime rates. The rate of total crime against Scheduled Castes in Madurai district stood at 5.7, while in Madurai city it was 1.9. Alarmingly, Theni district recorded the highest rate at 8.8, indicating a severe concentration of atrocities in that region.
Addressing Systemic Issues and Counter-Cases
Kadhir emphasized the necessity to identify the underlying social, political, and economic conditions that lead to these atrocities. He highlighted a particularly troubling trend: in 60% to 70% of cases, counter-cases are being filed, which often complicates the legal process and can deter victims from seeking justice.
He stressed that it is crucial to thoroughly examine the functioning of police stations, courts, and other government departments involved in these cases. Ensuring comprehensive monitoring at every stage of the legal process is vital to prevent lapses and to uphold the integrity of the justice system.
The discussion concluded with a reinforced call for legal professionals to actively participate as special public prosecutors, recognizing their pivotal role in combating caste-based atrocities and ensuring that the SC/ST Act is implemented effectively and justly across Tamil Nadu.
