How Existing Prison Manuals Reinforce Colonial-Era Caste-Based Discrimination
Manuals in states like Tamil Nadu and Rajasthan reinforce caste divisions by assigning specific roles and duties based on caste.
They continue the legacy of colonial laws that labeled certain communities as "criminal" or "habitual offenders" without conviction, perpetuating stereotypes.
Certain castes are assigned menial tasks, while higher castes receive more privileged roles, reflecting outdated social hierarchies.
How They Contravene Article 14 of the Constitution
Caste-based classification contradicts Article 14, which guarantees equality before the law and prohibits discrimination.
The segregation of prisoners by caste reinforces existing inequalities rather than alleviating them, violating the principle of substantive equality.
Assigning specific duties based on caste constitutes both direct and indirect discrimination, undermining prisoners' rights.
Why Did the Supreme Court Flag the Union Government’s 2016 Model Prison Manual?
The 2016 manual was criticized for its unclear definition of "habitual offender," allowing subjective interpretations that reinforce stereotypes against marginalized communities.
The manual's provisions did not effectively address or eliminate caste-based discrimination in prisons.
What Does the Verdict Say?
The Supreme Court declared caste-based divisions in prisons unconstitutional.
States must amend their prison manuals within three months to eliminate discriminatory practices and promote equality.
The court emphasized that all prisoners deserve dignity and should have access to meaningful work that aids in rehabilitation.
What Happens Next?
Legal authorities will conduct inspections to ensure compliance with the new directives and assess the effectiveness of reforms.
The implementation of necessary reforms in both the Model Prison Manual, 2016, and the Model Prisons and Correctional Services Act, 2023 will be closely monitored to prevent future discrimination.
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