A Study On The Role Of Advocacy And Social Media Influence On Crimes Against Dalits And Tribals In India
- IJLLR Journal
- May 23
- 1 min read
Binushma. B, L.L.M., (Criminal Law), Amity Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, Amity University, Noida
ABSTRACT
Dalits and Tribals in India have historically faced entrenched social discrimination, systemic exclusion, and widespread violence despite the presence of constitutional safeguards and specific legal protections such as the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. Crimes against these marginalized communities include physical assaults, sexual violence, economic exploitation, and social boycott, often perpetuated with impunity due to systemic bias within law enforcement agencies, judiciary, and political structures. In recent years, advocacy groups—comprising non-governmental organizations, community activists, and legal aid networks—have played an essential role in documenting atrocities, providing legal support to victims, and lobbying for stronger enforcement of protective laws. Concurrently, social media platforms have emerged as vital spaces for raising awareness, disseminating information rapidly, amplifying the voices of victims and marginalized communities, and mobilizing national and international public opinion. This study investigates the synergistic impact of advocacy efforts and social media activism in addressing crimes against Dalits and Tribals. Utilizing a mixed-method approach that includes doctrinal legal analysis, case study examination, and qualitative content analysis of social media campaigns, the research highlights both the transformative potential and inherent challenges of these tools. Challenges such as digital illiteracy, limited internet access, online harassment, political repression, and algorithmic biases continue to restrict their effectiveness. The study concludes by emphasizing the urgent need to bridge digital divides, enhance legal and institutional support for advocacy groups, protect activists from repression, and foster ethical media practices to ensure justice and social equity for Dalit and Tribal communities in India.
Keywords: Dalits, Tribals, Advocacy, Social Media, Crimes against Marginalized Communities.
