New Delhi/Aligarh: In a sensational revelation that has sent shockwaves across Uttar Pradesh and beyond, Chandravati Devi, a resident of Hastpur village in Aligarh district, has been accused of misusing the Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) financial assistance schemes to the tune of ₹46 lakh over the past decade. The case, which involves serious allegations of fraud, exploitation of legal loopholes, and manipulation of welfare schemes meant for the marginalized, has now caught the attention of both the National Commission for Women (NCW) and the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC).
The allegations surfaced when NCW member Dr. Archana Majumdar took cognizance of multiple complaints and forwarded the matter to the NCSC, demanding a thorough investigation and strict legal action against the accused. According to official sources, Chandravati Devi and her family allegedly exploited the provisions of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, by repeatedly filing cases under its ambit, thereby availing compensation and benefits meant exclusively for genuine victims of caste-based atrocities.
Fifteen Cases in Ten Years: A Shocking Record
The revelations by Aligarh Police have painted a disturbing picture of systematic misuse. In a report submitted to the commissions, the police confirmed that a staggering 15 cases had been filed by Chandravati Devi and her family over the last ten years, many of which, upon investigation, were found to be dubious in nature. These cases were allegedly filed with the ulterior motive of claiming compensation under various welfare schemes and legal provisions.
Police sources revealed that the family, by repeatedly invoking the SC/ST Act, not only secured financial aid but also managed to pressure local authorities and law enforcement agencies, taking undue advantage of the protective provisions of the law. Through this racket, the family is believed to have illegally pocketed approximately ₹46 lakh between 2014 and 2024.
NCW Raises Alarm, NCSC Steps In
Calling the matter “serious and damaging to the cause of social justice,” NCW member Dr. Archana Majumdar wrote to the NCSC, urging it to take the case on priority. “The misuse of such sensitive legislations and welfare schemes erodes public faith and deprives genuine victims of timely justice and assistance,” her letter noted.
The NCSC, headed by Chairperson Kishore Makwana, has confirmed receiving the complaint and has promised a fair but stringent investigation. With powers equivalent to those of a civil court, the NCSC can summon individuals, demand documentary evidence, and conduct hearings under oath. Sources within the commission hinted that the investigation could begin soon, involving both state authorities and independent observers to ensure impartiality.
Possible Legal Consequences for the Accused
Legal experts point out that if the allegations against Chandravati Devi and her family are proven true, the consequences could be severe. Under provisions dealing with filing false cases and fraudulent claims, imprisonment ranging from six months to seven years, along with hefty fines, can be imposed.
Moreover, if financial irregularities and embezzlement are established, the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, could also come into play, opening the doors for property confiscation and further imprisonment.
“False implication under the SC/ST Act not only ruins lives of the innocent but also dilutes the credibility of the law, which was enacted to protect the most vulnerable,” said Advocate Rajeev Shukla, a senior criminal lawyer practicing in the Allahabad High Court. “The law cannot be allowed to become a tool for extortion.”
Public Anger and Demands for Reform
The case has triggered outrage among local residents and social activists alike. Ramveer Singh, a resident of Agra, expressed his anger by saying, “Such people rob the rights of the poorest Dalit families who genuinely need government support. It is betrayal of the worst kind.”
Another resident, Sheela Devi, demanded stricter monitoring mechanisms to prevent such frauds in the future. “There should be proper verification before compensation is released. Otherwise, real victims will keep suffering while fraudsters enjoy government money,” she said.
Social activist Rajesh Kumar recalled a similar case from 2018 when a Dalit family in Aligarh was found to have extorted ₹3 lakh by filing multiple false atrocity cases. “Back then, the police exposed the fraud, but no systemic reforms followed. This is why such incidents keep repeating,” he added.
Experts Call for Stronger Verification Mechanisms
Policy experts believe that while the SC/ST Act is a cornerstone of India’s social justice framework, its misuse harms the very communities it seeks to protect. Welfare economist Dr. Meera Sinha emphasized the need for stricter scrutiny of claims filed under the Act. “The government must integrate technology, Aadhaar-linked verification, and periodic audits to ensure that compensation reaches only genuine victims,” she suggested.
Dr. Sinha also warned that repeated misuse cases could lead to social tensions, as false accusations create hostility between communities and weaken trust in the justice system.
All Eyes on NCSC’s Next Move
As the case heads toward a full-fledged investigation, the role of the NCSC will be crucial. The commission has already directed the Aligarh district administration and police to cooperate fully. Chairperson Kishore Makwana, in a brief statement, assured that “no guilty person will be spared, and no innocent person will be harassed.”
