Low Conviction Rate Under SC/ST Atrocities Act in Mangaluru: Only 7 Convictions in 10 Years

Low Conviction Rate Under SC/ST Atrocities Act in Mangaluru: Only 7 Convictions in 10 Years

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Oct 26, 2025: A total of 151 cases were registered under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act between 2015 and 2025 in the Mangaluru Police Commissionerate limits, but only seven convictions were recorded, while 144 cases ended in acquittal, according to data shared during the monthly SC/ST committee meeting held at the Mangaluru City Police Commissioner’s office on Sunday.

The information was presented by M. Devadas, State Organising Secretary of the Karnataka Dalit Sangharsha Samiti, who had obtained the data under the Right to Information Act.

Devadas expressed concern over the low conviction rate, calling it “unfortunate” and warning that it could embolden perpetrators. He urged the police department to ensure stricter prosecution and called for awareness workshops on the provisions of the Atrocities Act for Dalit leaders.

Dalit leader S.P. Anand stressed the need for police to instill courage and confidence among victims of caste-based violence.

DCP Ravishankar said many cases collapse in court due to lack of evidence and suggested that Dalit organizations assist victims in gathering proper documentation and witness support.

Chairing the meeting, DCP Mithun N announced that the department would conduct awareness programmes to educate SC/ST communities about legal rights and government welfare schemes.

During the meeting, Amalajyothi, a local resident, requested that Vamanjoor village be brought back under the Kankanady Police Station limits, citing difficulty in accessing the Vamanjoor station. DCP Mithun acknowledged the issue and directed Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs) to examine problems arising from jurisdictional changes.

Concerns Over Rising Red Stone Prices
Committee members raised concern over the sharp rise in red stone prices, which, along with the ongoing sand shortage, has affected construction activities in Dakshina Kannada. The price of red stone has risen from ₹28 to as high as ₹70 per piece in some areas. Officials assured that the issue would be discussed in the next committee meeting.

Clarification on Untouchability Allegations
Addressing an allegation made in a previous meeting about untouchability practices in Balkunje village, DCP Mithun clarified that no such incidents were found. The Gram Panchayat and police officers who visited the area confirmed that the claims were untrue.

DC Manna Land Encroachment
Chandrakumar, District President of the SC/ST Civil Awareness Committee, alleged that officials of the Forest Department had illegally taken over DC Manna land meant for SC/ST beneficiaries in several parts of Dakshina Kannada. He urged the authorities to take corrective measures.

Ambedkar Photo Issue
Referring to a complaint raised in the previous meeting regarding the absence of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s photo in the Balkunje Gram Panchayat office, officials clarified that the old photo had been damaged and a new one installed following inspection by police officers.

House Repair Assistance
ACP Vijayakranthi (South Sub-Division) informed that ₹6,000 had been sanctioned from the Revenue Department for repairing the house of Girija, mother of Shanta from Kavattaru village under Balkunje Panchayat. The Panchayat will cover the remaining costs, he said.

ACP Srikanth (North Sub-Division) and Traffic DCP Najma Farooqui were also present at the meeting.