Social Welfare Department Namchi Organises Sensitisation and Awareness Programme on SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act, 1989

The primary objective of the programme was to raise awareness among SCs and STs communities about their rights under the Act, the provisions for redressal, and the procedures to follow if they face any form of atrocities or injustices in society. The focus was on providing information regarding the denial of rights, exploitation, and legal abuse that such communities might face.

The event was graced by Ms Tirsang Tamang ADC Namchi as the Chief Guest.

Alongside her were Mr Nim Pintso Bhutia SDM HQ, Mr Mahesh Sharma Joint Director Social Welfare Department Gangtok, Mr Sonam Dadul Bhutia WO SWD Namchi, Mr Santosh Bardewa President of the All Sikkim Damai Samaj, Mr Anjan Sharma Legal Expert DLSA Namchi and Ms Jyotshna Gurung SHO Temi PS as resource persons.

During the programme, Ms Tirsang Tamang highlighted the significance of such awareness programmes in uplifting the community. She emphasised the need for active dissemination of information on the provisions of the Act, particularly within the SC and ST communities, to ensure their rights are protected.

She also raised concerns over the rising number of unnatural deaths in the district and urged the public to prioritise mental health awareness at the grassroots level, stressing its importance for the holistic growth of society.

Mr Nim Pintso SDM HQ, delivered an insightful talk on the importance of mental health awareness and its vital role in society. He emphasized that in order to reduce preventable deaths, it is essential to tackle societal issues through the collective efforts of all sectors. He called for a united approach to create a community free from these challenges.

Further, Mr Mahesh Sharma provided valuable insights into the compensation available for victims under the Atrocities Act, which ranges from ₹25,000 to ₹8 lakhs. He also spoke about several government schemes, including the “Nasha Mukt Sikkim” campaign, Ayushman Bharat Yojana, and scholarship schemes for students.

Mr. Anjan Sharma discussed the penalties associated with violations of the Act, including non-bailable offences and fines ranging from ₹25,000 to ₹8 lakhs. He also explained the application of the POCSO Act and how it applies to both the accused and those attempting to obstruct justice.

Ms Jyotshna Gurung elaborated on the role of police in the implementation of the Atrocities Act. She provided detailed instructions on how to file a First Information Report (FIR) and the investigation process, which involves the DC, ADCs, and association members.

She also clarified that verbal abuse could lead to legal action under the Act, and misuse of the Act could result in imprisonment.

Mr Bikash Dahal Zilla Panchayat expressed his gratitude for the organisation of the awareness programme. He stressed the necessity of such sensitisation events at the grassroots level for meaningful and lasting impacts.

An open discussion was held where participants raised questions, and resource persons provided clarifications. This interactive session helped to further solidify understanding of the Act and its provisions.

Following the awareness programme, the ADC Namchi, along with the team, inspected several newly completed facilities, including the Girls Hostel at Temi Government Senior Secondary School, Temi Health and Wellness Centre, and two newly constructed ICDS centres.

The ADC enquired about the status and functioning of these centres and directed the concerned stakeholders to complete ongoing works within the stipulated timeframe.

The welcome address for the event was delivered by Mr Sonam Dadul Bhutia WO, while Mr Bir Bahadur Rasaily HA of the Social Welfare Department, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to all participants and stakeholders involved in the success of the programme.

It maybe mentioned here that the event was also attended by Panchayat members, representatives of the All Sikkim Damai Samaj, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and members of the general public.