The Supreme Court of India has called for a comprehensive reform in jail administration to enhance the environment and culture within prisons, ensuring that prisoners can lead a dignified life as guaranteed by the Constitution. This declaration came on Friday when the court addressed systemic deficiencies within the prison system and emphasized the need for continued reform.
A bench comprising Justice J B Pardiwala and Justice R Mahadevan delivered a judgment that not only set aside a prior verdict by the Jharkhand High Court but also reinstated a transfer order of a convicted gangster, underscoring the necessity for safety and order in prisons. The justices invoked a quote by Fyodor Dostoevsky, stating, “The degree of civilization in a society can be judged by entering its prisons,” to highlight the importance of humane treatment for inmates.
The case involved Vikash Tiwary, a life-term convict and alleged member of the “Pandey gang,” whose transfer from one jail to another had initially been overturned by the Jharkhand High Court. The Supreme Court, however, restored the order, citing the prevention of potential gang violence as a key factor.
In its ruling, the Supreme Court stressed that while prisoners are deprived of their liberty, they do not forfeit their humanity. The judgment detailed that maintaining human dignity, providing basic amenities, and ensuring firm but fair discipline are essential to the well-being of inmates.
The court also highlighted the need for periodic monitoring of prison conditions and adherence to constitutional principles in the treatment of inmates. It directed the Jharkhand government to expedite the formulation and implementation of a jail manual that aligns with the 2016 Model Prison Manual to promote uniformity and reform in prison administration.
Justice Mahadevan, who authored the judgment, pointed out the lack of clarity and consistency in the administration of Jharkhand’s prisons and the conditions under which prisoners live. The judgment called for a proactive approach in managing and reforming prisons to ensure safety, order, and the dignity of all inmates.
