Importance of invoking Section 15-A of SC/ST Act highlighted
Addressing joint directors of prosecution, Special Public Prosecutors (SPP) and officials of the Police and Social Welfare departments, Mr. Ramakoteswara Rao said a comprehensive understanding of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, including its amendments, the Witness Protection Scheme, 2018, and the new Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023 were essential to achieve the best outcomes.
He highlighted the importance of invoking Section 15-A of the SC/ST Act and implementing victim protection measures to prevent witnesses from turning hostile. He also stressed on the mandatory use of video recording of witness statements during investigation and trial stages in order to improve the credibility of evidence and reduce the probe errors.
Mr. Rao also spoke about filing appeals in cases of acquittal or inadequate sentencing, and the larger goal of delivering justice to the victims, among other aspects.
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