Compensation for SC/ST victims raised

Under the new notification, states will pay relief ranging between `1 lakh and `8.25 lakh for various crimes

NEW DELHI: The Centre has notified the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes Rules making compensation for SC/ ST victims of gang rape, murder or acid attack much higher.

Under the new rules, notified on April 14, the birth anniversary of Dalit icon B R Ambedkar, states will pay compensation ranging between `1 lakh and `8.25 lakh to SC/ST victims for 47 categories of offences.

Earlier the rules listed only 22 offences with minimum compensations ranging between `60,000 and `5 lakh.

The parliament amended the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 this year that came into effect from January 26. The amendments made stronger provisions for the protection of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes from atrocities against them. Rules have now been framed to give effect to the amended provisions.

The police will now have to file a chargesheet for SC/ ST victims within 60 days and any delay has to be explained in writing by the officers and compensation must be paid within seven days of the incident being reported, or else in stages according to a schedule.

A victim of non-invasive offences like gestures or acts intended to insult the modesty of women, assault or use of criminal force with intent to disrobe, voyeurism will not need to undergo medical examination for getting compensation.

Also the victim of offences of grievous nature will be compensated on conclusion of trial even if it does not end in conviction.