Dates: 07/03/2024 – 11/03/2024
Part III held a cross-learning session with DDJC Team at their Orai office on attempts to conduct research on implementation of the provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 (PoA). DDJC members/ fellows shared their experiences of working on the field and the associated challenges, specifically the challenges faced when filing applications under the RTI Act, 2005, particularly concerns regarding backlash from government authorities when asking for information which may be considered sensitive by the government. Part III team shared its own experiences of filing and seeking responses through RTI in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, and shared copies of all applications filed.
A training session was also held with survivors/ dependents, youth volunteers and advocates on the PoA. A handout material on the definitions of offences under the legislation, the rights of victims and witnesses, the timelines and compensation stipulated under the law was prepared and shared. The session was then followed by a one-on-one discussion with the participants on their cases where Part III provided legal advice on potential legal strategies which the participants were encouraged to discuss further with their lawyers.
Part III team also met with survivors of caste atrocities in Banda and provided legal advice on the same. Additionally, Part Three team met lawyers who practice in Allahabad High Court/ District Court on human rights issues for a discussion on using the High Court to seek appropriate relief. The team also discussed the challenges faced with lawyers practicing at the District Level and the appropriate litigation strategy which may be adopted in PoA cases before bringing them to the Allahabad High Court.