Rising Numbers in Tamil Nadu
Crime Against SC/ST Communities in Tamil Nadu: Trends from 2020 to 2022: Tamil Nadu has seen a consistent rise in crimes against Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) between the years 2020 and 2022. This increase is reflective of a broader national trend, as states across India report growing figures in caste-based crimes.
In 2020, Tamil Nadu registered 1,274 cases of crimes against SCs. This number rose to 1,377 in 2021, and by 2022, it jumped to 1,761 cases. These statistics underline the deep-rooted societal challenges that continue to affect marginalized communities, even as legal safeguards are in place.
Alarming Rise in ST-Targeted Crimes
Though STs make up a smaller portion of the population, crimes against them have also increased in Tamil Nadu. There were 23 cases recorded in 2020, rising to 30 in 2021, and more than doubling to 67 cases in 2022. While the overall numbers may seem lower than SC-related crimes, the rate of increase is deeply concerning.
Women from SC/ST Communities: A Vulnerable Group
The data also highlights the vulnerability of women from SC and ST communities. Cases of rape involving SC women rose steadily over the three years — 116 in 2020, 123 in 2021, and 166 in 2022. Similarly, rape cases involving ST women increased from 3 in 2020, to 6 in 2021, and 14 in 2022.
This clearly points to the intersectional nature of violence where caste and gender combine to put SC/ST women at even greater risk.
National Comparison: Where Does Tamil Nadu Stand?
Compared to other states, Tamil Nadu is not the worst offender in terms of total cases, but the upward trend is worrying. In contrast, Uttar Pradesh tops the list with 15,368 cases registered in 2022 against SCs alone, up from 12,714 in 2020. Other states with high numbers include Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.
This national picture shows that caste-based violence is not limited to one region, and needs urgent attention across the board.
Government Measures and Helpline Support
To counter this rising trend, the National Helpline Against Atrocities (NHAA) has been launched with the toll-free number 14566. The goal of this helpline is not just grievance redressal, but also to spread awareness about legal rights and protections under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
Citizens are encouraged to report any caste-based violence or harassment. Additionally, state governments are being urged to strengthen law enforcement training, ensure timely FIR registration, and offer victim protection schemes.
STATIC GK SNAPSHOT
| Topic | Details |
| SC Cases in TN (2020–2022) | 1274 → 1377 → 1761 |
| ST Cases in TN (2020–2022) | 23 → 30 → 67 |
| Rape Cases SC Women (TN) | 116 (2020), 123 (2021), 166 (2022) |
| Rape Cases ST Women (TN) | 3 (2020), 6 (2021), 14 (2022) |
| Worst Affected State (SC Crimes) | Uttar Pradesh – 15,368 in 2022 |
| NHAA Helpline Number | 14566 |
| Law Enforced | SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act |
| Data Source | NCRB (Crime in India Report 2022) |
