The Supreme Court of India is set to hear a significant plea on April 23 that seeks the formulation and implementation of a uniform compensation policy for victims of hate crimes across the country. The petition, filed by a civil rights organization, urges the apex court to direct all states and union territories to adopt a standard framework to ensure timely and fair financial aid to individuals affected by such crimes.
The plea highlights the inconsistencies in current compensation mechanisms, pointing out that victims of similar offenses often receive vastly different support depending on their location and the discretion of local authorities. It calls for the establishment of a centralised policy that would not only ensure equitable compensation but also uphold the constitutional rights of victims irrespective of their religion, caste, or community.
Advocates appearing for the petitioners argue that the absence of a uniform compensation scheme leads to further marginalisation of victims and undermines the seriousness of hate-motivated violence. The petition cites recent incidents across various states to underscore the need for an urgent and consistent response from the justice system.
The upcoming hearing is expected to draw attention from legal experts, human rights groups, and the public, as the Supreme Court’s decision could set a precedent for how hate crime victims are treated and supported nationwide. If accepted, the plea could pave the way for a more compassionate and just approach to addressing the aftermath of hate crimes in India.