Una, December 30 - Meetings of two committees constituted under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and on disability protection were held today under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Jatin Lal. He reviewed the effective implementation of the SC-ST Atrocities Prevention Act and the National Trust Act and directed the concerned departments to take prompt action and ensure mutual coordination.
The first meeting was of the District Vigilance and Monitoring Committee constituted under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. He stated that the main objective of this meeting was to prevent caste-based discrimination and provide justice and relief to the victims. He directed that the investigation of all cases registered under this Act be expedited.
The Deputy Commissioner informed that under this Act, along with awarding punishment, there is a provision to provide legal protection and rehabilitation relief ranging from Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 8.25 lakh to the victims under various sections. The first installment of this amount is given upon filing of the FIR, the second installment when the case is presented in court, and the remaining amount is paid after the judgment.
He instructed the departmental officers to continuously monitor the progress of the cases so that the victims receive timely relief and justice.
The second meeting was of the District Level Local Committee constituted under the National Trust Act, 1999, which discussed in detail the legal protection of persons suffering from autism, cerebral palsy, mental retardation, and multiple disabilities. It was informed in the meeting that under this Act, permanent or limited-period legal guardians are appointed for the concerned individuals after they attain the age of 18 years. As of December 30, 2025, 113 permanent legal guardians have been appointed in the district.
The Deputy Commissioner directed all departments to seriously follow the provisions laid down under both Acts and not to show any laxity in providing prompt relief and legal protection to the victims and persons with disabilities. The meeting was attended by District Welfare Officer Awas Pandit, Principal Sister Sanjana and Sister Asha of Prem Ashram Una, along with officers from various departments.