Cabinet to consider changes in SC-ST Act to make it harsher

NEW DELHI: The Union Cabinet is likely to consider in its meeting tomorrow amendments in the SC and ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act which seeks to provide harsher punishments for crimes and bring more offences under its purview.

As per a draft prepared by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, obstructing use of common property, allegations of witchcraft, preventing entry in place of worship, social and economic boycott and promoting enmity are among the offences which it wants to come under the amended Act, sources said.

The ministry also wants various others crimes, including rape and kidnapping, to attract the provision of the Act.

In another amendment moved by the ministry and likely to be taken up by the Cabinet, it has been proposed to enhance the authorised share capital of Backward Classes Finance and Development Corporation from existing Rs 700 crore to Rs 1500 crore.