As of December 1, 2023, the National Crime Records Bureau’s Prison Statistics India-2022 reveals that the country has 4,34,302 undertrial prisoners. In response to this, the government has implemented various measures to address the challenges in the criminal justice system.
The 14th Finance Commission advocated the establishment of 1800 Fast Track Courts (FTCs) between 2015-20, focusing on expediting cases of heinous nature, civil cases related to vulnerable groups, and long-pending property cases. While 848 FTCs are currently operational, an additional 758 Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs), including 412 exclusive POCSO Courts, have been set up under the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018. These courts have successfully disposed of over 2,00,000 cases, emphasizing a time-bound approach.
Addressing the financial aspect, the government, in response to the Budget 2023-24 announcement, has devised a ‘Scheme for providing financial assistance to indigent prisoners to pay fine and obtain remission’ with an annual budget allocation of Rs 20 crore.
The Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) has been amended with Section 436-A, allowing the release of undertrial prisoners on bail after serving half of the maximum imprisonment period. Additionally, the introduction of “Chapter XXIA” in CrPC incorporates the concept of “Plea Bargaining,” fostering pre-trial negotiations between defendants and the prosecution.
In leveraging technology, the government has introduced the “Prison Management Application” (e-Prison Software) integrated with the “Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System.” This facilitates efficient data capture of prisoners, aiding the quick identification of cases for review by the “Undertrial Prisoner Review Committee (UTRCs).” From April 1, 2020, to June 30, 2023, the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) organized 32,612 UTRC meetings, leading to the release of 74,630 inmates.
Legal aid initiatives include the establishment of Legal Services Clinics in prisons by State Legal Services Authorities (SLSAs), ensuring prisoners have access to advocates for representation and legal advice. Awareness camps organized by NALSA in prisons further educate inmates about their legal rights, including free legal aid, plea bargaining, Lok Adalats, and the right to bail.
These comprehensive efforts signify a commitment to reforming the criminal justice system, promoting transparency, efficiency, and ensuring justice for all. The information was provided by Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Law and Justice, Minister of State in the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, and Minister of State for the Ministry of Culture, in a written reply in Rajya Sabha.
