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SC/ST Act: Government rushes to Supreme Court, Opposition says too late

Congress and other Opposition parties slammed the government for a "delayed" realisation and sought an immediate amendment in the law.

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SC/ST Act: Government rushes to Supreme Court, Opposition says too late
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The Centre moved the Supreme Court on Monday, urging it to review its March 20 order, seen as a dilution of the SC and ST Act that has sparked nationwide violence. The court said it will hear the plea in due course.

Congress and other Opposition parties slammed the government for a "delayed" realisation and sought an immediate amendment in the law.

Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said, "A very comprehensive review has been filed... the government does not agree with the top court's reasoning." He said the Narendra Modi government and BJP were committed to the welfare of the SCs and STs. He criticised Congress and Opposition parties for "politicising" the issue.

Congress blamed the Modi government for "wasting" 13 crucial days. "The government could have brought an amendment in Parliament to negate the Supreme Court order. It could have immediately filed a review petition. This government is not interested in the welfare of Dalits and tribals," said Ghulam Nabi Azad.

Earlier in the day, Congress president Rahul Gandhi said keeping Dalits at the lowest rung of Indian society is in the DNA of the RSS/BJP. "Whoever dares challenge this position is suppressed with violence," he tweeted.

BSP chief and Dalit leader Mayawati attacked the Modi government for the "delay" in filing the petition and lent her support to protests but condemned violence.

RSS distanced itself from the apex court order.

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