Supreme Court Outlaws Caste Discrimination in Jails
New Delhi, October 4, 2024 - In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court declared caste-based discrimination in jails to be unconstitutional. The court also ordered the removal of any references to caste from prison records and manuals across the country.
Discriminatory Practices Struck Down
The court struck down discriminatory practices in prison rules of 10 states, including the segregation of barracks, division of manual labor, and discrimination against prisoners based on caste. It emphasized that prisoners have the right to live with dignity.
Constitutional Basis
The judgment cited Article 17 of the Constitution, which guarantees equality of status and opportunity to all citizens, and stated that discrimination based on caste violates this fundamental right.
Center and States Ordered to Amend Rules
The court directed the Center and states to amend their prison rules and laws to eliminate any discriminatory provisions within three months. Compliance reports must be filed with the court.
Implications for Habitual Offenders
The judgment clarified the definition of “habitual offenders” in prison rules, stating that it should be in accordance with state laws. Any other mention of “habitual offenders” in jail manuals was declared unconstitutional.
Further Action
The court also took suo motu cognizance of the issue of caste-based discrimination in prisons and listed the matter for review after three months. It instructed states to submit compliance reports on the judgment.