Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu is turning up the heat on officials to ensure justice moves faster for victims of caste-based atrocities. In a high-stakes meeting Saturday, he demanded expedited investigations under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, stressing that delays only deepen wounds and undermine trust.

Key facts

  • CM directed officials to speed up probes into SC/ST atrocity cases
  • Ordered special study into high-case districts: Guntur, Anantapur, East Godavari, Prakasam
  • Emphasized preventing misuse of the law while ensuring justice

Focus on High-Case Districts

Naidu’s attention zeroed in on four districts reporting a troubling number of cases—Guntur, Anantapur, East Godavari, and Prakasam. He wants a deep dive: What’s driving these numbers? How long do cases take to resolve? The goal isn’t just counting cases, but understanding them.

Broader Reforms and Empowerment

Beyond legal steps, the CM highlighted the need for economic and educational uplift. He urged departments to coordinate better, pushing programs like P4 and Margadarsi Bangaru Kutumbam to improve living standards. Education got special mention—enabling SC/ST students to compete for spots in top institutions like IITs and IIMs isn’t just policy; it’s a pathway to dignity.

Looking Back to Move Forward

Naidu also called for a review of changes since the Justice Punnayya Commission report, aiming to course-correct where needed. It’s a nod to history, but with eyes firmly on the future—ensuring the law serves its purpose without being weaponized.