The rot in India’s prison system cannot be glossed over (Editorial page, “The state of Indian prisons”, June 26). In addition to this, the subject of the ‘New Prison Manual 2016’ is important. It includes provisions such as access to free legal services, additional provisions for women prisoners, rights of prisoners sentenced to death, inspection of prisoners and modernisation of prisons. Whether the prison authorities are following the manual or not is the moot point. If the answer is negative, then this too is another violation of the basic rights of prisoners.
Sushant Dhekale,
Kolhapur, Maharashtra
The data on prisoners reflect the scant interest evinced by many governments in dealing with the issue. It would be no exaggeration to say that undertrials are caged like birds for years due to poor legal options and the penurious condition of inmates. That there is ignorance of legal privileges such as Section 436 A of the Code of Criminal Procedure is unacceptable.
N. Vijai,
Coimbatore
Vary rarely does the system help rehabilitate a prisoner for the period he or she was incarcerated even when acquitted. There is stigma attached to the person which can affect his or her ability to make a new life. Quick trials and humane treatment within the system can do much more than reforms that exist on paper.
Arya S.T.,
Ashti, Wardha, Maharashtra