Supreme Court Orders States to Establish Disability-Friendly Jail Systems

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In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court has directed all states and union territories to establish a robust grievance redressal mechanism specifically for prisoners with disabilities. The court emphasized the need for accessible and inclusive facilities within jails to prevent systemic neglect and abuse. Prisoners with disabilities will now have access to educational programs, with suitable adjustments made to facilitate their participation. Additionally, those with benchmark disabilities will be entitled to enhanced visitation provisions to ensure sustained family support and emotional well-being. The court has also referred to an earlier order that provided exhaustive directions for providing facilities to prisoners with disabilities in Tamil Nadu. These directions will now be extended to all states and union territories. States and union territories have been asked to establish a structured institutional mechanism to ensure the regular availability of assistive devices, mobility aids, and other support equipment for prisoners with disabilities. They must also disseminate awareness of the obligations flowing from the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. A comprehensive compliance report is to be submitted within four months, outlining the measures undertaken to effectuate the court's directions. The matter will be heard again on April 7.