Bill seeks to consolidate laws relating to regulation of prisons and correctional services and prisoners in State.
- It is based on Model Prisons Act 2023.
Key features of Model Prison Act 2023
- Specialized Jails: Establishes high-security, open, and semi-open jails.
- Legal Aid & Incentives: Provides parole, furlough, and early release for good conduct.
- Rehabilitation: Focuses on vocational training and skill development for reintegration.
- Inclusive Accommodation: Ensures separate facilities for women and transgender prisoners etc.
Prison System in India
- Prisons/ ‘Persons detained therein’ is a 'State' subject (Entry 4).
- It is governed by Prison Act 1894 and prison manuals of respective state governments.
- However, Union Ministry of Home Affairs has prepared ‘Model Prisons Act 2023’ which may serve as a guiding document for the States to reform the British-era law Prisons Act, 1894.
Need for Prison Reforms
- Colonial Era Law: Supreme Court in Ramamurthy vs state of Karnataka case 1996 emphasised need to enact new Prison law to replace Prisons Act, 1894.
- Rising Prison Occupancy: As per Prisons in India 2024 report by Supreme Court of India, total inmates reached 5.73 lakh as of December 31, 2022.
- Out of this, 75.8% were reported as undertrial prisoners.
- Inhumane Conditions: Cramped cells, lack proper sanitation, and inadequate medical care.
Other measures taken for Prison Reform
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