Headline
The Supreme Court of India Bans Caste-Based Separation and Discrimination Inside Prisons.
Summary
The Supreme Court of India,led by Chief Justice Dr. D.Y. Chandrachud declared caste-based discrimination happening inside Indian prisons illegal and unlawful. It ordered all states and Union Territories to revise their manuals of prison within 3 months and suo moto proceedings was initiated titled In Re: Discrimination Inside Prisons in India to ensure compliance.
Key Facts
- Case Name: Sukanya Shantha v. Union of India & Ors., WP (C) No. 1404 of 2023
- Judges Name: Chief Justice Dr. D.Y. Chandrachud, Justice J.B. Pardiwala, Justice Manoj Misra.
- States must update prison rules to abolish caste discrimination.
- Caste columns made in prison registers must be removed.
- Habitual offender laws must align with legislation of the state.
Legal Insights
The Supreme Court of India found that caste-based discrimination violates Articles 14, 15, 17, 21, and 23 of the Indian Constitution. The judgment emphasizes rights of the prisoner, mainly for historically marginalized groups.
Impact
This ruling pressured states to make important changes to their prison systems, encouraging equality and stopping caste-based separation and mistreatment.
Why It Matters
This judgment focuses on the systemic caste-based discrimination in prisons and makes sure that all prisoners are treated with dignity and fairness under the law.
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