Allahabad High Court: SC/ST Act Case Can Be Quashed On Compromise Through Section 14A Appeal

The Allahabad High Court held that proceedings under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act can be quashed based on a compromise between the parties, but such quashing must be done only by the High Court in appeal under Section 14A of the Act and not under Section 482 CrPC. The Court clarified that Section 482 cannot override the special statutory remedy provided under the Act. It noted that while the SC/ST Act contains stringent provisions to protect vulnerable groups, courts must also recognise genuine settlements in private disputes where continuing prosecution would serve no purpose. The judgment ensures procedural discipline by directing litigants to the proper remedy and maintains the balance between the Act’s object of deterrence and the need to avoid unnecessary criminal trials in compromise cases. It also reinforces that High Courts must exercise caution and ensure that settlements are voluntary, without coercion, and consistent with the dignity of the complainant.