Ensure Non-Discriminatory Access To Public Resources Under SC/ST Act: Madras High Court Appreciates Govt's Swift Implementation - 2025-08-26

Madras High Court Lauds Govt's Swift Action to End Discrimination in Access to Public Water

Madurai: The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has closed a petition after appreciating the "swift action" taken by the Tamil Nadu government to implement its directions aimed at ensuring non-discriminatory access to public resources, particularly water, for all communities. Justice R.N. Manjula emphasized the need for a "change of mindset" to uphold the constitutional aspiration of 'Unity in Diversity'.

Case Background

The order was passed in a petition filed by Thirumalaisamy against the State of Tamilnadu. The case stemmed from an earlier court directive dated July 31, 2025, which mandated the state authorities to take concrete steps to prevent discrimination in the sharing of public resources, especially water, in line with the objectives of the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989.

State's Compliance and Key Directives

During the hearing, the Additional Public Prosecutor informed the Court that the government had proactively responded to the court's order. A Government Order (G.O. in Letter No.6630/MA.3/2025-1) was issued on August 25, 2025, circulating the High Court's directions for effective implementation.

The Principal Secretary to the Government has directed subordinate officials under District Collectors to enforce the following measures: - Ensure universal access to public resources without any discrimination, with a supervisory committee to be formed for this purpose. - Provide a sufficient number of water tap connections in all areas to guarantee easy access for every community member. - Strictly adhere to the objectives of Section 21 of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, to prevent any lapses in the sharing of water.

Furthermore, the Director General of Police has issued a memorandum to all senior police officials across the state, instructing them to scrupulously implement the court's directions.

Court's Observations and Suggestions

While appreciating the state's prompt response, Justice R.N. Manjula highlighted the deeper societal issue at play.

"In addition to the directions already given, it is suggested to all the stakeholders that there should be a change of mindset in the people in order to ensure that there is no discrimination arises between different communities of people in the sharing of public resources and in the use of public facilities," the Court observed.

The Court also proposed a constructive model for fostering communal harmony, citing a successful initiative in Thalaivankottai Village, Tenkasi District. It suggested that similar teams, involving the "younger generations of each villager," should be formed in all Districts and Panchayat Unions. This, the Court noted, would help "future citizens learn how to achieve 'Unity in Diversity', which is a highly cherished constitutional aspiration."

Final Order

Expressing satisfaction with the measures taken, the Court impressed upon the authorities the "need to carry forward this drive with the same spirit, without any dilution or compromise." With these remarks and suggestions, Justice Manjula closed the petition, marking a significant step towards reinforcing social equality and ensuring the effective implementation of protective legislation.