Kancheepuram DSP Arrested for Neglect in SC/ST Act Case

Quick Summary

• M. Sankar Ganesh,Kancheepuram Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP),was remanded in judicial custody for alleged negligence in a case under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act,1989.
• The principal District and sessions Judge issued the order after taking suo motu cognisance of the DSP’s failure to act on allegations by Murugan, a Scheduled Caste individual.
• Murugan had complained about being assaulted by bakery owner Sivakumar following a dispute over stale cake but reported no action from police on his complaint.
• Investigators failed to comply with statutory mandates under Section 18 A(a) regarding immediate registration of an FIR without preliminary inquiry.
• Both DSP Sankar Ganesh and SP K. Shanmugham were criticized for negligence; neither arrested accused persons nor followed procedural obligations under the Act.
• High drama occurred as DSP initially avoided boarding his official car before proceeding to judicial custody; later taken to hospital for medical check-up amid resistance from some officers.

Indian Opinion analysis

This incident highlights serious gaps in accountability within law enforcement when dealing with sensitive cases related to caste-based atrocities. Despite detailed legal frameworks like the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, procedural delays undermine justice delivery systems designed to protect vulnerable communities. The judge’s criticism suggests institutional failures at multiple levels,raising questions about adherence to statutory duties among police hierarchies.

The judge’s proactive stance on holding officers accountable thru suo motu cognisance is notable-it underscores judiciary vigilance as a key counterbalance when administrative systems falter. However,resistance from certain police officers toward implementing such rulings may reflect entrenched challenges around institutional reform and caste biases within law enforcement agencies.

Systemic negligence evident here could harm public trust in authorities protecting marginalized groups unless addressed comprehensively through stricter oversight mechanisms and faster remedies under existing laws.

For further details: Read more