Charges against Ashis Nandy and the punishment that he faces

Jaipur: Sociologist Ashis Nandy faces police questioning over his alleged anti-Dalit remarks made at the Jaipur Literature Festival. The Rajasthan police have now summoned Nandy for questioning over his remarks that linked caste and corruption.

The police had earlier registered an FIR under section 3 (1) of the SC/ST Act which is non-bailable and invites upto 10-years in jail. Following are the charges against Nandy

-Section 506 IPC - Criminal intimidation

An FIR was lodged against him under Section 506 IPC (Criminal Intimidation) and the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

Punishment: Fine, up to 2 years imprisonment, or both

-SC and ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989

Punishment: Fine and 6 months to 5 years imprisonment

Though Nandy later apologised saying that he was sorry if he was "misunderstood", his statement stirred up a controversy inviting reactions from political parties who condemned his comment and demanded action against him. An all-party delegation, comprising leaders of the MNS, the Shiv Sena, the BJP, the RPI and Dalit organisations - under the banner of the Bahujan Samaj Sangharsh Samiti - had submitted a memorandum to police seeking registration of complaint against the author. The delegation also submitted the petition to Divisional Commissioner Ravindra Jadhav.

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• Rajasthan Police summons Ashis Nandy for questioning

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