During a workshop in Jabalpur on January 12, 2025, Justice Vivek Agarwal raised concerns about the misuse of the SC/ST Act and laws protecting women. He advocated for careful investigations to discern false accusations from genuine ones to prevent wrongful imprisonment and exploitation by middlemen. Emphasizing justice, he called for systemic reforms in law enforcement.
Jabalpur: During a workshop on the SC/ST Act and its implementation held on January 12, 2025, in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh High Court Judge Vivek Agarwal raised serious concerns about the misuse of the Act. Justice Agarwal, the chief guest at the event, also expressed apprehension about the misuse of laws concerning crimes against women.
Speaking to prosecution and police officials, Justice Agarwal emphasized the need for thorough and honest investigations in cases under the SC/ST Act. He pointed out the importance of distinguishing genuine accusations from false ones to ensure justice.
“If we have the right, we also have the duty to ensure that an innocent person is not wrongfully punished. It is imperative to filter out inconsistencies and bring out the truth,”
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he stated.
Justice Agarwal highlighted a troubling trend of middlemen exploiting the legal system by filing false cases under the SC/ST Act to claim compensation payouts. He noted that these middlemen often trap innocent individuals and take a share of the compensation intended for genuine victims.
He warned investigating officers to be vigilant, saying:
“Investigating officers should take care that in such cases innocent people are not implicated and the guilty should not escape. The administration, police, and judiciary must act responsibly to maintain credibility and prevent exploitation by middlemen.”
Justice Agarwal recounted a case where two young men were acquitted after spending six to seven years in prison for a false accusation. He underscored the devastating impact of wrongful imprisonment, stating:
“The stigma of imprisonment ruins lives, making reintegration into society and finding employment nearly impossible. It is our responsibility to prevent such injustices.”
The judge also voiced concerns about false cases being lodged under laws meant to protect women, often to settle personal scores or claim compensation. He stressed the importance of balancing strict action against crimes with vigilance to prevent misuse.
“While crimes against women are grave and demand strict action, we must be vigilant against their misuse,”
he remarked.
Justice Agarwal’s address served as a reminder of the delicate balance required in law enforcement and prosecution. His remarks underscore the need for systemic reforms to ensure that legal safeguards are not exploited, while genuine victims receive the justice they deserve.
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