Madhya Pradesh High Court Intervenes in Caste-Based Discrimination Case
Court Directs Police to Invoke Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 and National Security Act in Temple Incident
In a landmark judgment, the Madhya Pradesh High Court has taken suo moto cognizance of an incident involving caste-based discrimination and coercion in the village of GramSatariya, Madhya Pradesh. The court, led by Justices Atul Sreedharan and Pradeep Mittal, has issued directives to the state police to take stringent legal actions under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 and the National Security Act, 1980.
The case arose from an incident where a member of the Other Backward Classes (OBC) was allegedly forced to wash the feet of a general category individual and drink the water within temple premises. The victim was reportedly coerced by a mob in the village following the creation of a meme that offended community sentiments. The court expressed grave concern over the incident, highlighting the societal impact and potential for communal discord.
The court directed the inclusion of Sections 196(2), 351, and 133 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 in the First Information Report (FIR) that was initially registered under Sections 296 and 196(1)(b). The judgment also invoked provisions of the National Security Act against those identified in video footage of the incident.
Addressing the broader implications of caste-based violence, the court emphasized the need for immediate and effective action to prevent further escalation and maintain public order. The judgment underscored the alarming rise in caste identities and violence in Madhya Pradesh, urging the police and local administration to act decisively.
The case has been scheduled for a follow-up hearing on October 15, 2025, where further developments will be reviewed.
Bottom Line:
The Court addressed a shocking incident of caste-based discrimination and violence in Madhya Pradesh, directing the police to take stringent legal actions, including invoking provisions under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS) and the National Security Act (NSA).
Statutory provision(s): Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 Sections 196(2), 351, 133, National Security Act, 1980
