Archive · 18 Jul 2025
SC: States Should Formulate Common Rules for Ill Prisoner Release
The Supreme Court is looking at how to help prisoners who are very sick or very old.
The court wants each state to have similar rules about letting these prisoners go.
The government is working on a set of rules to help manage these prisoners.
Some groups want the court to order the release of prisoners over 70 or with terminal illnesses.
The court is concerned about the potential for people to misuse the system.
The court discussed the need for medical boards to assess the prisoners' conditions and the potential for their release.
Supreme Court addresses the release of terminally ill prisoners.
The court suggests states create common rules on releasing terminally ill prisoners.
The Centre is framing a standard operating procedure (SoP) on the issue.
NALSA seeks release of terminally ill prisoners or those above 70 years old.
The court noted the potential for misuse and the need for clear guidelines.
- Who
- The Supreme Court, National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), and the Centre are involved.
- What
- Supreme Court discussed and suggested rules regarding release of terminally ill prisoners.
- When
- The Supreme Court made its statements on Friday.
- Where
- New Delhi
- Why
- To address the release of terminally ill prisoners and to establish consistent guidelines.
NALSA's View
Government & Court View
Release of prisoners
NALSA's View
Supports release of terminally ill and elderly prisoners to alleviate overcrowding and provide better care.
Government & Court View
The court expressed concerns about potential misuse of guidelines for release.
- Court
- Supreme Court
- Petitioner
- NALSA
- Focus
- Release of terminally ill and elderly prisoners
- Centre's Stance
- Framing a standard operating procedure
- States Involved
- Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Odisha, and others