Centrally Sponsored Scheme for Implementation of the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955 and the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 is still running in 2026, and the central government keeps releasing funds to states and union territories under this scheme. It gives financial relief, rehabilitation and legal support to victims from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, and also offers money for inter-caste marriages where one partner belongs to these communities.
In April 2026, the Ministry released a token amount of ₹128.43 crore through Mother Sanction on the SNA-SPARSH platform even before states sent their proposals, so that the scheme keeps running without a gap. Separate amounts have also gone to states whose proposals got approved. For example, for 2026-27 the central government released ₹30.52 crore to Telangana for inter-caste marriage incentives.
Centrally Sponsored Scheme for Implementation of the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955 and the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 - Introduction
Centrally Sponsored Scheme for Implementation of the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955 and the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 helps make sure that the constitutional rights of left out and poor communities stay protected. Launched by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, this scheme works to abolish untouchability and prevent violence against members of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
By providing central assistance, this scheme lets states offer relief and rehabilitation to those who have faced atrocities. It also encourages social harmony by giving incentives for inter-caste marriages. Besides this, it supports the working of special police stations and courts so that justice is delivered on time.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Centrally Sponsored Scheme for Implementation of the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955 and the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 |
| Level | Central |
| Scheme target | Individual |
| Availability | All States |
| Category | Social welfare & Empowerment |
| Nodal Ministry | Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment |
| 2026 Update | ₹128.43 crore released in April 2026; ₹30.52 crore to Telangana for 2026-27 |
Benefits
Financial Assistance
This scheme gives strong support to those who have faced hardships. Victims of atrocities receive relief and rehabilitation, with amounts decided by specific state rules. Also, couples who enter into an inter-caste marriage can claim incentives ranging between ₹10,000 and ₹5,00,000, depending on their state of residence. The central government funds up to 50% for states and 100% for Union Territories so that delivery stays smooth.
In 2024-25 the central government released ₹495.29 crore under this scheme, helping about 99,965 victims across the country. Earlier, ₹535.30 crore was released in 2023-24 for 79,667 victims and ₹392.71 crore in 2022-23 for 88,172 victims.
Institutional Support
To keep people safe and speed up justice, the scheme strengthens Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Protection Cells. It also helps in setting up dedicated police stations and 192 Exclusive Special Courts across 13 states to resolve cases well.
Awareness and Legal Aid
The scheme funds large-scale public information campaigns to teach citizens about their rights and gives legal pathways so that victims can reach the justice system easily.
Eligibility
For Atrocity Relief
If you belong to a Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe and have faced discrimination or violence as defined under the specific protective Acts, you are eligible to seek support.
For Inter-Caste Marriage Incentives
You are eligible if you are part of a marriage where one partner belongs to a Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe. For example, if Ramesh belongs to a Scheduled Caste and marries Sunita from a different caste, they may apply for this incentive under the state rules.
Application Process
STEP 1 - Go to the Social Welfare Department in your State or Union Territory. The staff will help you check if your situation qualifies under either the atrocity relief or the inter-caste marriage incentive criteria.
STEP 2 - Get and fill up the prescribed application form. Attach all required documents, sign self-attestations where needed, and provide recent passport-sized photographs.
STEP 3 - Submit your completed application to the local office and make sure you receive an acknowledgement receipt for your records.
Post-Application Phase - The state authorities will verify your details and eligibility. Once approved, the funds will be paid directly through the state's financial system.
Documents
For Atrocity Relief
You will need your Caste Certificate, a copy of the First Information Report (FIR), your identity and address proof, bank account details, and any medical certificates if the case involves physical injury.
For Inter-Caste Marriage
You will need your marriage certificate, caste certificates for the partner belonging to a scheduled community, identity and address proofs for both partners, a joint bank account passbook, current photographs of the couple, and an affidavit confirming the inter-caste marriage.
Note: Always keep your original documents handy for verification.
References
Read full official scheme guidelines here
FAQ's
What is the funding pattern for this scheme?
The central government provides a 50:50 funding ratio to states, while Union Territories receive 100% assistance.
Is this scheme still active in 2026?
Yes, the scheme is still running. The Ministry released a token amount of ₹128.43 crore in April 2026 through the SNA-SPARSH platform and has also released a second instalment of central assistance to eligible states and union territories.
Can I approach the government if I am a victim of discrimination?
Yes, if you belong to a Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe, you can contact the local Social Welfare Department to get the relief and rehabilitation services provided under the law.
How do the Special Courts help in justice delivery?
These courts are set up as District Session Courts so that cases are heard and resolved much faster than in standard courts.
What is the importance of Article 17 in this context?
Article 17 of the Constitution of India formally abolishes untouchability, serving as the base for these protection Acts.
When did the current application procedures take effect?
The consolidated procedures have been in effect since 1st April 2023, requiring all applicants to submit requests to their local Social Welfare offices.
How does the government monitor the effectiveness of this scheme?
The government tracks performance through regular field visits, review conferences with state secretaries, and detailed physical and financial performance reports.