The Union Home Ministry has asked all States to ensure that there was no delay in registration of FIRs in cases of crimes against Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) and closely monitor such cases where investigation goes beyond two months.
In a communication to all States and Union Territories, the Home Ministry also said that the district Superintendent of Police (SP) must ensure timely attendance and protection of all prosecution witnesses including police officers and official witnesses for speedy trial of cases related to crimes against SCs and STs. “There should be no delay in the registration of FIRs in cases of crimes against SCs and STs. Ensure proper supervision at an appropriate level of cases of crimes against SCs and STs, from the recording of FIR to the disposal of the case by the competent court,” said the MHA. The Home Ministry said the delays in investigation (beyond 60 days from the date of filing of the FIR) shall be monitored at the district and State level in every three months, and wherever required, special DSPs shall be appointed to expedite the process of investigation. “The authorities concerned in the State Governments must ensure proper follow up of reports of cases of atrocities against SCs and STs received from various sources, including the National Commission for SCs and STs,” the communication said.
“Delay in trial of cases of crimes against SCs and STs may be reviewed on a regular basis in the monitoring committee or monthly meetings chaired by district and sessions judge attended by District Magistrate, Superintendent of Police and Public Prosecutor of the district,” it said.