The Scheduled castes And the Scheduled tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act was enacted and enforced in 1989, after 39 years of the enforcement of constitution, to address the atrocities and discrimination faced by the SCs and STs. The act ensures protection and rehabilitation of victims and provides strict punishment for atrocities based on caste, practices of untouchability, dereliction of duties by public servants, etc. Although this enactment has been effective in achieving its purpose yet some notable loopholes and misuses have also come into light recently. The Supreme Court and various high courts have also shown concerns and interpreted various provisions to ensure the effective implementation of the act.