Allahabad High Court Finds Misuse of SC/ST Act and Orders Compensation Refund
The Allahabad High Court dismissed a criminal appeal filed by 19 accused under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, after discovering contradictions in the complainant's statements.
Contradictory Statements and FIR Dispute
The complainant denied lodging the FIR that formed the basis of the case, contradicting her earlier statements. During the hearing on November 4, 2025, the appellants' counsel claimed the FIR was not lodged by the victim and alleged her thumb impression was taken on a blank paper.
Counsel for the complainant refuted these claims, stating that no such allegation was made and the FIR was validly registered.
Judicial Observations and Orders
Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav remarked that the case revealed a significant misuse of the protective provisions of the SC/ST Act, describing it as a “serious abuse of the process of law.” The court ordered the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Yamunapar), the investigating officer, and the complainant, Smt. Ram Kali, to appear personally before the bench on November 6, 2025.
The judge highlighted the “gross misuse of the benevolent provisions” of the SC/ST Act.
Case Timeline
- November 4, 2025: Hearing on the validity of FIR and allegations regarding the complainant's statements.
- November 6, 2025: Court passed the order dismissing the appeal and summoned the key persons involved.
Summary
This judgment emphasizes the court’s commitment to preventing exploitation of laws designed to protect marginalized communities, ensuring legal processes are not abused.
Order date: November 6, 2025
Author's summary: The Allahabad High Court found that the SC/ST Act was misused through contradictory statements and ordered compensation refund, stressing protection against legal abuse.