Maharashtra to set up special courts for speedy trial of atrocity cases

The Maharashtra government has proposed to set up special courts for speedy trial of atrocity cases in view of the low conviction rate in crimes against dalits.

"We have proposed to set up special courts to deal with atrocity cases against dalits and the proposal has been sent to the law and judiciary department for approval," home minister RR Patil informed the legislative council today.

Shiv Sena MLC Neelam Gorhe raised the issue in the house and asked the government to explain the low conviction rate in the atrocity cases.

She cited figures by the National Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Commission which indicates that the conviction rate in these cases in the state is only three per cent.

Citing reasons for the low conviction rate in atrocity cases, Patil said the delay in registering complaints and investigations, non-cooperation of witnesses and failure to verify caste certificates are the main issues.

"The state government has appointed a committee to overcome such hurdles and improve the conviction rate," Patil said.

Another Shiv Sena MLC Diwakar Raote alleged that the Atrocity Act is being misused and false complaints are being lodged.

He asked if the government would make any changes in the Act considering the false complaints. Patil said the government has no plans to amend the Act.

A deputy level official verifies these cases before lodging the complaints under the Act, he said.