The Supreme Court said the underuse of open correctional institutions is a “very serious issue” even as prisons across states remain overcrowded. The Court plans to issue a detaailed mandate after noting states’ poor response on utilising open prisons.
The Supreme Court strongly criticised the Centre and several States for not complying with its 2020 order mandating CCTV installation in all police stations, calling custodial deaths a serious “blot on the system”. The Court has granted three weeks for compliance, failing which senior officials will have to personally explain the delay.
New Delhi – 5th May: The Supreme Court of India on Monday asked the Central Government and 18 states to respond to a petition filed by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA). The petition requested the release of elderly prisoners aged above 70 and terminally ill inmates on bail, especially those who have not approached the top court for relief after their bail pleas were denied.
At the Western Regional Conference, Justice BR Gavai emphasized the need for citizens to understand their constitutional rights for effective enforcement. He highlighted NALSA’s commitment to providing legal aid and supporting marginalized groups, including efforts to reduce prison overcrowding. Justice Surya Kant reiterated that justice is a fundamental right, not charity.
In a directive issued on December 30, the ministry emphasized that there should be no caste-based discrimination or segregation in prisons, including in the assignment of duties or work. New Delhi: The Union Home Ministry updated the prison manual rules to prevent discrimination, classification, and segregation of inmates based on caste. In a directive issued […]
The Supreme Court of India sternly rebuked State governments and Union Territories for their passive approach towards overcrowded prisons, emphasizing the need for immediate action. The Court highlighted the fundamental rights implications of prison overcrowding and urged for expeditious measures, emphasizing the significance of prison reforms and the government’s responsibility. Specific states were called out for their lackadaisical approach and demanded to comply with directives for urgent improvement. The case, “In Re: Inhuman Conditions in 1382 Prisons,” continues to address these critical concerns, with a scheduled review on July 11.
