Ensure quality investigations in cases related to SC/ST atrocities, prosecutors said

Director of Public Prosecutions Byra Ramakoteswara Rao has called for strong coordination between the police and the prosecution to ensure effective implementation of the Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act across the state.

Justice will be delivered to victims only when investigations are of high quality, witnesses are protected, prosecutions are effective and convictions are secured, Mr Rao told prosecutors.

Addressing a state-wide mid-year review meeting on the implementation of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act in Vijayawada on Saturday, Mr. Rao said that lapses in investigations should be covered up and trials must be properly managed so that the number of convictions is not affected.

He noted that clear guidelines have been issued for the collection of scientific and digital evidence, timely filing of charges and presentation of evidence in courts.

In the light of the recent judgments of the Supreme Court and High Courts, comprehensive legal guidance has been provided to police officers and special prosecutors and the same should be availed, he added.

Published – 18 Jul 2026 21:03 IST