Prison discrimination and inequality

Source: The post prison discrimination and inequality has been created, based on the article “Ending discrimination in prisons” published in “The Hindu” on 12th November 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2-Governance- Prison Reforms

Context: The article discusses prison discrimination and inequality. It highlights how courts struck down rules segregating prisoners by caste, class, or status, ensuring equality under Articles 14 and 15. It emphasizes dignity, non-discrimination, and equal treatment for all prisoners, advocating reforms.

For detailed information on Supreme Court’s Ruling on Caste Bias and Prison Segregation read this article here

What is the Supreme Court’s stand on caste-based segregation in prisons?

1. In Sukanya Shantha v. Union of India (2024), the Supreme Court struck down prison rules segregating prisoners by caste.
2. These rules forced marginalized caste prisoners to perform cleaning jobs while others did cooking.
3. The Court held this violated Articles 14 and 15 of the Constitution.
4. It directed states to amend such discriminatory practices to ensure equality and dignity.

How has the Supreme Court addressed other types of prisoner segregation?

1. In Inacio Manuel Miranda v. State (1988), a rule limiting the number of letters prisoners could write based on classification was held discriminatory.
2. Similarly, in Madhukar Bhagwan Jambhale v. State of Maharashtra (1984), a ban on writing letters to co-prisoners was struck down for violating freedom of expression.
3. In Prem Shankar Shukla (1980), economic status-based handcuff rules were invalidated for being irrational.

What about the classification of political prisoners?

The Calcutta High Court ruled on this in Gaur Narayan Chakraborty and Others (2012):

1. Maoist petitioners were classified as political prisoners under the West Bengal Correctional Services Act, 1992.
2. The Court held political prisoners deserved basic amenities like furniture, newspapers, and writing material.
3. It suggested these amenities should extend to all prisoners to ensure dignity.

What is the way forward for prison reforms?

1. Amendments to the Model Prison Manual 2016 should include basic amenities for all prisoners, ensuring dignity.
2. These reforms can eliminate discriminatory practices and improve living conditions in Indian prisons.

Question for practice:

Discuss how the Supreme Court and other courts have addressed discrimination and inequality in Indian prisons.