Significance of Maharashtra Protection of People from Social Boycott (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act of 2016

Caste prejudices and social stigma associated with caste still persist in our society and the Maharashtra Protection of People from Social Boycott (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act of 2016is another law which seeks to curb these age old Inhuman practices.

Significance:

Law enforcement:
1. The act provides for the speedy trial within the 6 months of chargesheet filed.
2. Provision for punishment to the Individual and caste panchayats for perpetuating the caste discrimination and social boycott.

Social:
1. Deterrent to caste prejudices
2. Easy access to available resources like education,healthcare,rivers,ponds wells,forests and other common goods
3. Would counter the Inferiority and superiority complex complex entrenched in society.

Economical:
1. Equal opportunities in jobs and government employment schemes.
2. A boon for Dalit capitalism

Political:
1. Augment the political representation.
2. Strengthen the voice of "Untouchables" in formation of new legislations.

Constitutional:
1. Uphold the principles of Right to equality under article 14-18 and Right to Life under article 21
2. In lines with theSocialist and gandhian directive principles.

Ethical:
1. In lines with the Human ethics of OECD and UN documents.
2. would act as moral force and torch bearer for other states to enact such law.

However, the Litmus test of the law would be the enforcement of the provisions of this law in true letter and spirit given the poor state of policing. The recent concern of CJI related to the lack ofJudicial workforce holds the testimony to the fact that such laws would be ineffective without the a proper Judicial Impact assessment