PREVENT THE ATROCITY, Pg10.

Key Highlights:

• NCRB data shows a 28.8% increase in registered cases of atrocities against Scheduled Tribes (STs) in 2023 compared to 2022.
• Manipur reported 3,399 cases in 2023 due to the ongoing conflict, a significant rise from only one case in 2022.
• Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan are also cause for concern, with the second and third highest reported cases, respectively.
• Despite central initiatives like PM JANMAN and DAJGUA, atrocities against STs persist.

Detailed Insights:

• The rise in reported cases may reflect increased awareness, but the high numbers remain alarming.
• Madhya Pradesh, despite a high ST population (21.1% as per 2011 Census), continues to report grievous crimes against STs.
• A high chargesheeting rate in Madhya Pradesh (98.4%) contrasts sharply with Rajasthan (42.3%), indicating administrative shortcomings in the latter.
• Sustained social awareness and sensitisation programs are essential to address entrenched social biases against tribal communities.
• The new government in Rajasthan must improve the follow-through on cases of atrocities against STs.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Scheduled Tribes (STs): Officially designated groups of indigenous people in India recognized by the Constitution.
• Atrocities: Acts of extreme cruelty and violence, often targeting marginalized communities.
• PM JANMAN: A central government initiative for tribal outreach and development.