Centre finalises ‘Model Prisons Act, 2023’
The Central Government has prepared a detailed Model Prisons Act, 2023. It will replace the pre-independence ‘Prisons Act, 1894’.
The Prisons Act, 1894 mainly focused on the detention of criminals and the maintenance of discipline and order in prisons.
An attempt has been made through the MPA, 2023 to plug the loopholes in the existing 1894 Act. MPA 2023 aims to improve prison management and transform prisoners into law-abiding citizens. Along with this, their rehabilitation in the society is also to be ensured.
Two other related laws – the Prisoners Act, 1900 and the Transfer of Prisoners Act, 1950 – have also been reviewed. Relevant provisions of these Acts have been incorporated in the MPA, 2023.
‘Prisons’ and ‘persons detained in prisons’ in the country are subjects of the State List. As such, the MPA 2023 will act as a “guiding document” for the states.
Salient features of the new Model Prisons Act:
- In this, provision has been made for separate prison system for women prisoners, transgenders etc.
- The new Act also has provisions regarding establishment of grievance redressal mechanism, constitution of Prison Development Board, change in behavior towards prisoners.
- Emphasis has been laid on using technology to bring transparency in prison administration.
- Penalties have been provided for inmates and prison staff for using prohibited items like mobile phones in prisons. It is the duty of the prison personnel not to allow such prohibited items to be used by the inmates.
- Provisions have been made regarding the establishment and management of high security jail, open jail and semi-open jail etc.
- Provision has been made to provide legal aid to the prisoners. Apart from this, provisions have also been made to give parole and furlough to prisoners and release them before completion of sentence to encourage good conduct.
Source : Livemint
