Amendments to SC/ST Act : Karem Sivaji lambasts Centre

Nation-wide bandh to be observed on Aug 9

Rajamahendravaram: Andhra Pradesh SC/ST Commission Chairman Karem Shivaji said that the BJP government is trying to implement the agenda of Rashtriya Swayam Sevak Sangh (RSS). 

Attacks on SC and STs were increased across the country after BJP came to power at the Centre, he alleged.

Speaking to media persons at R & B Guest House here on Saturday, he said SC/STs are ready to sacrifice their lives to protect SC/ST Atrocities Prevention Act intact. 

The BJP government is trying to dilute the Act by making amendments to it, which has been providing security for SC/STs in the country. 

The amendments to the Act include extension of inquiry period to 60 days from existing 30 days, facility to get station bail and anticipatory bail. 

He demanded that the Central government issue an ordinance to keep the Act intact by revoking 30-days period for probe, non-bailable case and no anticipatory bail and arrest of the accused in 24 hours. 

A nation-wide bandh will be observed on August 9 to mount pressure on the Central government to bring an ordinance in Parliament monsoon session, he said. 

All SC/ST elected representatives met President Ram Nath Kovind and briefed him about the importance of the Act and narrated about the atrocities on SC/STs in the country.

On August 8, a rally will be taken out from Gokavaram Bus Station to Ambedkar statue to Kovvur to register their protest against the Central government. 

Ministers KS Jawahar, Nakka Anand Babu, APSRTC Chairman Varla Ramaiah and others will participate in the rally, he said.