In a major verdict in the 2016 Una Dalit assault case, a special court in Gujarat has convicted five accused persons for their involvement in the brutal incident that had sparked nationwide outrage.
The case dates back to July 2016 in Una, where several Dalit men were publicly flogged by a group of vigilantes on suspicion of cow slaughter. A video of the assault had gone viral on social media, triggering widespread protests across Gujarat and other parts of India.
After years of legal proceedings, the court found five individuals guilty, while acquitting others due to lack of sufficient evidence. The convicted persons have been held responsible for assault and related offences under relevant sections of law, including provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
The incident had become a significant flashpoint in discussions around caste-based violence and social justice in India, leading to protests and demands for stricter action against perpetrators.
The quantum of punishment is expected to be announced separately, as per legal procedure.
