Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh Sees Maximum Cases of SCs Denied Access to Public Spaces
- 10 Mar 2026
- 2 min read
Why in News?
According to the NCRB’s 2023 Crime in India report, 180 cases were registered under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act for denying Scheduled Castes access to public spaces, with a staggering 173 cases (over 96%) reported from Uttar Pradesh alone.
Key Points:
- Trend in SC Discrimination: Since 2017, cases involving SCs being denied access to public spaces — such as community areas, common lands, and social venues — have risen, highlighting ongoing social exclusion despite legal safeguards.
- Uttar Pradesh accounts for the lion’s share of such incidents, suggesting deeper challenges related to caste‑based exclusion in public life within the state.
- Other reports show that complaints related to denial of access to public spaces, social boycotts, and caste‑based abuse form a significant portion of calls to the National Helpline Against Atrocities since 2021, with UP reporting the highest volume of calls.
- SC/ST Act: The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 prohibits denial of access and other discriminatory acts against SCs, making such offences punishable.
- Constitutional Rights: The Constitution of India guarantees equality before law and prohibits discrimination on the basis of caste, including in public spaces, under Articles 14 and 15.
- Social Exclusion: Despite legal protections, historical caste discrimination persists socially and culturally, leading to continued incidents where SCs face exclusion from public services and community facilities.
- Significance: Highlights gaps in law enforcement, regional disparities, and need for stronger protection of SC rights.
| Read More: SC and ST Act 1989, Constitution of India |
