Supreme Court Orders Nationwide Inclusive Prisons for Disabled Inmates

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In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court has directed all states and union territories to transform their prisons into inclusive spaces for disabled inmates. The court has given the states a four-month deadline to implement a comprehensive plan for accessible infrastructure, grievance redressal mechanisms, and inclusive education within prisons. The order was passed in response to a public interest litigation filed by activist Satyan Naravoor, who highlighted the plight of wheelchair-bound former Delhi University professor GN Saibaba and Parkinson-affected Stan Swamy, who died in jail due to lack of proper care. The court has also extended the directions passed in the July judgment of the L. Muruganantham case to all states and union territories. The new directives require prisons to identify and cater to the specific needs of disabled inmates, including wheelchair-friendly spaces, accessible toilets, ramps, and dedicated spaces for therapeutic needs. In addition, the court has directed the establishment of a robust and independent grievance redressal mechanism specifically designed for prisoners with disabilities. The court has also emphasized the importance of inclusive education, stating that no inmate should be deprived of the opportunity to pursue educational programs solely on account of disability. The court has made section 89 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwd) Act, 2016 applicable to prison establishments across the country, which will require prison authorities to disseminate awareness of their obligations under the Act. The court will take up the matter on April 7 and expects the states and union territories to submit a comprehensive compliance report by then. The report should outline the steps taken, progress achieved, and modalities evolved for ensuring the implementation of the directives. The Supreme Court's order is a significant step towards ensuring that disabled inmates receive the dignity and respect they deserve. It is a testament to the court's commitment to upholding the rights of persons with disabilities and promoting inclusive and humane treatment within the prison system.