Working for welfare of SCs, says CM Sukhu

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday said the Himachal Government was working with sensitivity for the welfare of Scheduled Castes (SCs) and incidents of untouchability were on the decline due to stern action.

The CM chaired a meeting of the State Level Vigilance and Monitoring Committee, constituted the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1995 and Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities), 1985, held after an interval of 11 years.

He said these laws were the result of the spirit of social justice and foresightedness of the Congress and Dr BR Ambedkar.

These laws were being implemented effectively in the state, bringing positive changes in our society, he added.

Sukhu said Mahatma Gandhi struggled throughout his life to establish equality and harmony in society. Inspired by his efforts, the state government was working with sensitivity and commitment for the welfare of the SCs, he added.

He said Rs 7.35 crore had been distributed as rehabilitation assistance to 1,200 victims in the last three years, while 45,238 victims had been provided free legal aid through the State Legal Services Authority.

Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Dhani Ram Shandil said 25.19 per cent of the state's population belonged to the SC category and the state government was working for their welfare.