Delhi HC: Why are women-prisoners denied benefits?
Asking why the benefits of semi-open and open prisons aren't extended to women prisoners and the reason behind this discrimination, Delhi HC sought responses from Delhi's Government, Lieutenant-Governor Anil Baijal, and Director General of Prisons. The court was acting on a plea filed by former Tihar Jail legal-advisor, advocate Sunil Gupta, which seeks setting up of special prisons for women in Delhi. Read more!
Delhi HC lists matter for 11 November
The HC bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Gita Mittal and Justice C Harishankar questioned: "Why are you denying this (special benefits) to women prisoners? This is very bad. What you are doing is a stereotypical approach. People should have option, why should you discriminate?"
Special jails allow convicts lead normal lives outside prison
Sunil Gupta also sought quashing of the guidelines approved by Delhi L-G and other steps taken to exclude women from open/semi-open prisons. Such jails allow prisoners to work outside the prison premises to earn a livelihood and return in the evening. Prison authorities across India are adopting the concept that was introduced to assimilate convicts with society and also reduce their psychological pressure.
