SC/ST Act Invoked in Delhi Racial Abuse Case

The SC/ST Act has been invoked in a Delhi racial abuse case involving three women from Arunachal Pradesh in Malviya Nagar. Police registered an FIR, arrested one accused named Ruby Jain, and shifted the probe to an ACP-level officer. The case involves racial slurs, humiliation, and intimidation after a dispute over repair work at a rented flat.

This incident happened in South Delhi’s Malviya Nagar area. What began as a small argument over dust from drilling work soon turned ugly. According to police, the women had called an electrician to install an air conditioner in their fourth-floor flat. During the drilling, some dust and debris fell to the floor below. Neighbours objected. Voices were raised. Then things reportedly crossed the line.

What Exactly Happened That Day

Reports say the neighbours, identified as Harsh Singh and Ruby Jain, allegedly abused the women and used racial slurs. The women also claimed they were called “dhandhewali,” a deeply insulting term. They said derogatory remarks were made not just against them but also targeting people from the Northeastern community.

A video of the incident surfaced online and quickly spread across social media. That video made the issue bigger. Public anger followed. Many demanded strict action.

Delhi Police confirmed that an FIR was registered under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. These include provisions related to outraging a woman’s modesty and promoting enmity based on race and related grounds. After reviewing the material on record, police added relevant sections of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act as well.

Police Action and Arrest

Police stated that one of the accused, Ruby Jain, has been arrested. The investigation is now being handled by an ACP-rank officer. Senior officers are closely supervising the matter. Officials said further investigation is ongoing.

Invoking the SC/ST Act makes the case more serious. This law was enacted to prevent atrocities and discrimination against members of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. If proven, offences under this Act carry strict punishment.

The addition of these sections signals that authorities are treating the allegations seriously. It also sends a message that racial abuse will not be taken lightly.

Political Leaders React Strongly

The issue did not stay limited to Delhi. Leaders from the Northeast reacted sharply.

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu strongly condemned the alleged racial abuse. He urged the Delhi Police Commissioner to ensure swift and strict action.

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma also expressed concern. Congress Lok Sabha MP Angomcha Bimol Akoijam and Sikkim MP Indra Hang Subba were among several public figures who condemned the incident. Many demanded accountability and better safety for people from the Northeast living in metro cities.

Their reactions show this is not just a local dispute. It touches on a larger concern about racial discrimination faced by Northeastern citizens in big cities.

Why This Case Matters

Incidents like this reopen old wounds. People from the Northeast have, at times, reported facing stereotypes, racial remarks, and social exclusion in metropolitan areas. Even small disputes can take a disturbing turn when identity becomes the target.

The law exists to protect dignity. The SC/ST Act and other criminal provisions are meant to ensure that humiliation based on race or background does not go unpunished. But laws alone are not enough. Social attitude needs change too.

This case will now move forward under close police supervision. The outcome will be watched closely, not only in Delhi but across the country.

At the heart of it, this is about respect. About basic dignity. No one should face abuse because of where they come from. And when it happens, action must follow.