India: At least nine people killed in violent Dalit protests April 2

Event

At least nine people were killed on Monday, April 2, after violent protests and clashes between protesters and police broke out in several Indian states over changes to a non-discrimination law that members of the Dalit community claim will dilute legal protections for vulnerable groups. At least six people have been killed in Madhya Pradesh, as well as two others in Uttar Pradesh, and one individual in Rajasthan. Protesters reportedly obstructed roads and train tracks and damaged property in the states of Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Gujarat, and Bihar. Related protests also caused traffic congestion in Delhi. A number of areas, including northern Punjab and Rajasthan, also suspended internet services on April 2 to curb the spread of protests. Additional protests and associated clashes (including with police), as well as a heightened security presence and potential transportation disruptions, are expected in the coming days.

Context

On March 20, the Indian Supreme Court decreed that anti-discrimination rules within the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act had often not been correctly applied. The court modified stipulations within the law, including authorization for police to arrest individuals suspected of discrimination at once; the court ruled that an arrest for discrimination can only be made after an investigation into the incident. Opponents to the court's decision allege that the changes will weaken the protections.

The Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act aims to limit discrimination toward the Dalit (untouchable) population and other groups subject to increased prejudice and discrimination.

Advice

Individuals in affected areas are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.