Maharashtra proposes to make caste-based social boycott a crime

Q.  Which of the following will be the first state to propose a law against the social boycott of individuals or families by caste Panchayats?
- Published on 02 Mar 16

a. Haryana
b. Maharashtra
c. Kerala
d. Tamil Nadu

ANSWER: Maharashtra
 
  • Maharashtra will be the first state in the country to propose a law against the social boycott of individuals or families by caste Panchayats.
  • Caste panchayat heads have been reported to mete out extra-judicial punishment to those not adhering to their rules.
  • It terms any action of social boycott a crime. It states that a trial should be completed within six months from the date of filing of a charge sheet, and has recommended three years of imprisonment or a fine of Rs 1 lakh, or both, for those found guilty.
  • Offences punishable under the act shall be cognisable and bailable, and can be tried by a Metropolitan Magistrate or a Judicial Magistrate of the First Class.
  • There is also provision for Social Boycott Prohibition Officers to detect the commission of offences under the act; these officers will assist magistrate and police officers in the discharge of their duties.
  • The state was the first in the country to enact an anti-superstition law.

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