scheduled caste

The Supreme Court has made a pivotal decision stating that caste-related insults exchanged in the confines of a private home are not subject to the SC/ST Act's provisions. Justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and NV Anjaria noted that to invoke Sections 3(1)(r) and 3(1)(s), the acts must occur 'in public view.

The Allahabad High Court has acquitted three men convicted in a 1983 gang rape case. The court cited a lack of medical evidence, inconsistent witness testimonies, and a vague FIR as reasons for doubt. The medico-legal report found no injuries or sperm, and no doctor testified. The acquittal highlights the prosecution's failure to establish guilt beyond reasonable doubt.

The Supreme Court questioned extending reservation benefits to affluent individuals within backward classes, emphasizing social mobility through empowerment. Justices noted that children of well-placed government employees should ideally exit the reservation system.

Patliputra University is thrilled to announce the start of admissions for its four-year undergraduate programs for the 2026-27 academic year! The university's innovative 'Samarth' portal has already received an enthusiastic response, reflecting the eagerness of aspiring students. Applications are accepted until May 31st, and with an expected intake of around 1.25 lakh students, this is a fantastic opportunity.

Saswata Chatterjee has joined the cast of 'Dada: The Sourav Ganguly Story,' portraying Sourav's father, Chandi Ganguly. Filming is underway in Mumbai, with Rajkummar Rao as Sourav Ganguly and Tanya Maniktala as Dona Ganguly. The biopic will explore Ganguly's cricket career and personal life.

A village head in Shahjahanpur has been accused of confining and raping a Dalit woman sanitation worker. The woman alleged she was called to his house for her salary slip, then locked in, tied, and assaulted. Police have registered a case under relevant sections of the BNS and SC/ST Act.

Nashik police filed a 1,500-page chargesheet against four accused in a TCS sexual harassment and religious sentiments case. Charges include rape, sexual harassment, conspiracy, and acts intended to outrage religious feelings under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The investigation also invoked the SC/ST Act. Evidence includes witness statements, medical reports, and seized documents.

In 2024, Tripura emerges with a mixed but hopeful crime landscape, showing a general decline in overall cases after previous spikes. The state's impressive 79.7% chargesheeting rate highlights a commitment to justice. Notably, there were substantial decreases in crimes against both senior citizens and SC/ST communities, although murder rates experienced some fluctuation.

In a significant move, the National Commission for scheduled castes has responded to the Punjab authorities regarding serious allegations of caste-based discrimination being recorded in an official Census document. The Commission plans to delve into this issue under Article 338 of the Constitution and has requested a detailed action report within a strict 15-day timeline.

West Bengal's new BJP government is enacting swift policy changes, replacing TMC schemes with central programs like Ayushman Bharat and Annapurna Yojna. Mandatory 'Vande Mataram' in schools, revised OBC reservations, and increased age limits for government jobs are among the key decisions. The administration is also scrutinizing caste certificates and initiating corruption probes.

The Madhya Pradesh government has opened applications for its overseas scholarship scheme for the Academic Session 2026-27. The programme supports eligible students seeking admission to Master's and PhD courses abroad. Applicants must belong to the scheduled caste category, meet income and age requirements, and secure admission to globally ranked institutions. The scholarship covers tuition fees, maintenance allowance, contingency expenses, travel costs and visa charges. Applications must be submitted by May 25, 2026, through the Department of Higher Education portal.

Today, May 17, marks the final chance to register for the UPJEE(P) 2026 polytechnic entrance exam. The examination, crucial for admissions across Uttar Pradesh, will now be held from June 2 to June 9. Admit cards are slated for release on May 25. Aspiring students are urged to complete their applications promptly on the official JEECUP portal.

Mohanlal's 'Drishyam' phenomenon expands globally with an official Indonesian adaptation, titled 'Ayah, Aku Mau Cerita…', set for an August 20 release. This marks the first Malayalam film to receive a dedicated Indonesian remake, starring real-life couple Vino G. Bastian and Marsha Timothy. Meanwhile, 'Drishyam 3' continues its strong box office run in India.

The Joint Entrance Examination Council, Uttar Pradesh will close the UP JEECUP 2026 application process today, May 17, 2026, for admission to diploma courses in government, aided and private polytechnic institutions. Eligible candidates can apply through the official portal before the deadline. Admit cards will be released on May 25, while the Computer-Based Test for various groups is scheduled from June 2 to June 9, 2026. The Council will also open a correction window for submitted forms.