CPI for implementation of SC/ST act in original form

Eluru: CPI activists launched a Padayatra in Eluru city on Monday, demanding that the Centre implement SC/ST Atrocities Act in the original form as it is.

The workers gathered at New Bus Complex and started their Padayatra on the Grand National Trunk (GNT) Road. 

The Padayatra passed through NR Peta, Fire Station Centre, Over Bridge, Jute Mill Centre, Vasanta Mahal Centre, Karra Vantena and reached old bus stand centre.

Addressing the Padayatra, CPI district committee secretary Dega Prabhakar alleged that the BJP-led NDA government was trying to weaken the SC/ST Atrocities Act by amending it.
 
However, the CPI and its affiliated people’s associations were opposing the move and fighting against the Centre.
  
He alleged that the Centre with an intention and with an anti-Dalit attitude had been trying to amend the Act.  

He criticised that the Centre did not take steps to control attacks on Dalits.  

He demanded that the Centre include the SC/ST Atrocities Act in the 9th Schedule of the Indian Constitution and implement it in its original form. 
 
CPI district assistant secretaries Konala Bhima Rao, Bandi Venkateswara Rao, Dalita Hakkula Porata Samiti leader Kalinga Lakshmana Rao, CPI leaders Sali Rajasekkhar, Saka Gangaraju, Boda Vajram, K Venkatrao, K Krishnamacharyulu, Srinivas Dange, G Sarada, R Roja, V Indira Karatam Mahalakshmi and others participated in the Padayatra.