Overview
The Union Home Ministry has amended the Model Prison Manual, 2016, and the Model Prisons and Correctional Services Act, 2023, to address caste-based discrimination in Indian prisons. The changes align with the Supreme Court’s October 3, 2024, directive on eliminating caste-based discrimination among prisoners.
Key Amendments
- Prohibition of Caste-Based Discrimination:
- Prison authorities are now mandated to ensure that prisoners are not discriminated against, classified, or segregated on the basis of caste.
- Duties or work assignments in prisons cannot be allocated based on caste.
- Integration of Provisions Against Manual Scavenging:
- The amendments explicitly incorporate the provisions of The Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013.
- Manual scavenging or any hazardous cleaning of sewers or septic tanks within prisons is strictly prohibited.
- New Legal Provision:
- A new section, 55(A) – Prohibition of Caste-Based Discrimination in Prisons and Correctional Institutions, has been added to the Model Prisons and Correctional Services Act, 2023.
Context and Significance
- Supreme Court Directive:
The amendments are a response to the Supreme Court’s directive to address caste-based inequalities within correctional institutions. - Eradicating Inequities:
The changes aim to ensure fairness in treatment, duty allocation, and living conditions for all prisoners, irrespective of their caste. - Alignment with Human Rights:
The reforms reinforce India’s commitment to equality and human dignity within the prison system.
Implications
- Operational Changes:
Jail authorities across states and Union Territories will need to revise procedures to comply with the new provisions. - Enforcement of Manual Scavenging Act:
The prohibition of manual scavenging within prisons highlights the government’s broader efforts to eradicate this practice.
Conclusion
The amendments to the prison manual represent a critical step toward addressing systemic caste-based discrimination in correctional institutions. These changes not only align with constitutional principles of equality but also mark progress in ensuring human dignity for all, including prisoners.
Key Focus Areas for UPSC:
- Constitutional principles of equality (Article 14, 15).
- Role of Supreme Court directives in driving policy changes.
- Government initiatives to address caste-based inequalities.
- Implementation of The Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013.
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Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes, focusing on the relevance of the topic for UPSC aspirants. Students should stay updated on further developments and refer to official sources for comprehensive preparation.
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