Karnataka to launch 33 dedicated police stations for SC/ST atrocity cases on Ambedkar Jayanti

Starting April 14, the Karnataka government will operationalize 33 exclusive police stations dedicated to handling cases of atrocities against Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST). This move coincides with Ambedkar Jayanti, symbolically reinforcing the commitment to safeguarding Dalit rights.

Also Read: Bengaluru Police: ‘Naavu Neevu’ volunteer night patrolling programme extended across city

The new stations are expected to strengthen the role of the Directorate of Civil Rights Enforcement (DCRE) and ensure faster and more focused investigations into such cases.

Currently, the state records a very low conviction rate for SC/ST atrocity cases. Between 2012 and 2024, only 2.47% of cases resulted in convictions. Furthermore, from 2020 to 2024, only 28% of 10,961 registered cases were formally filed as FIRs. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has been openly critical of police inaction, stating that officers often weaken cases.

Social Welfare Minister Dr. H.C. Mahadevappa confirmed the April 14 launch and hailed it as a historic Cabinet decision for Dalit welfare. While Bengaluru will get two stations, each of the remaining districts will have one. This initiative fulfills a 2023-24 budget promise and aims to make civil rights enforcement more effective across Karnataka.