The CPI-M led LDF government in Kerala today expressed reservation over the alleged dilution of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and said it has sought legal opinion on the matter.
The state has sought legal opinion to move against the order that "diluted" the act, Minister for Law and Welfare of SC/ST, A K Balan, said in the state assembly while replying to a submission.
Protests by Dalits against the softening of the provisions of the Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act by the Supreme Court erupted in large-scale violence in different parts of the country yesterday leaving nine dead.
Several dalit organisations had given a call for 'Bharat Bandh yesterday.
The state has informed the Centre about its dissent to the judgment, Balan added.
The ongoing agitation by Dalits across the country was raised by A P Anilkumar (Cong). He wanted the assembly to pass an unanimous resolution against the order.
"The government agrees with Oppostion sentiments," Balan said, adding, the judgment virtually defeated the purpose of the 1989 Act.
The apex court had issued the order without giving notice to states, he said.
It was also condemnable that police used force to disperse those who protested against the judgment, the member added.
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