State Obliged To Treat Prisoners With Humanity: Top Court On Prison Reforms

The Supreme Court of India has issued a directive mandating all states and Union territories to establish a time-bound protocol for addressing vacancies in Open Correctional Institutions (OCI) and open barracks. This ruling underscores the court's commitment to ensuring humane treatment of prisoners, emphasizing that the state has an obligation to uphold the dignity of individuals in custody. The court's order comes in response to ongoing concerns regarding the conditions of incarceration and the need for reform in the prison system. By implementing structured protocols for staffing these facilities, the court aims to enhance the rehabilitation prospects for inmates and promote a more effective correctional environment. This decision highlights the judiciary's role in advocating for the rights of prisoners while simultaneously urging the government to take proactive measures toward prison reform, reinforcing the principle that all individuals, regardless of their circumstances, deserve humane treatment and dignity under the law.