New Delhi, Jan 29 : A seventh review meeting of five states (Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh and Jharkhand) on cases related to atrocities against Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes has revealed that Uttar Pradesh has the highest number of cases of cruelty, while Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh are ranked after it.

Union Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Miera Kumar told reporters here, that the study was based on the data provided by state governments.

The meeting reviewed the implementation of SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 and Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955.

Kumar, however, said that she does not believe in criticizing state governments, as it may lead to the states fudging figures.

She asked state governments to set up a toll free number to help people report crimes under the SC/ST Act.

In a bid to prevent injustice to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, the ministry has also instituted awards for individuals and NGO''s for doing outstanding work in eradicating untouchability and combating atrocities against SC/STs''. (ANI)