Supreme Court Expands Prison Reform Panel’s Mandate to Protect Disabled Prisoners

The Supreme Court expanded the role of a High-Powered Committee to oversee the rights and care of prisoners with disabilities across India.

The Bench emphasized that incarceration must not dilute fundamental protections under Articles 14 and 21.

The Court directed the committee to ensure compliance with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and provide assistive devices and accessibility measures.

All States and Union Territories must file compliance affidavits within six weeks. This move aims to establish a uniform, rights-based approach to disability care within the national prison system.

[Sathyan Naravoor v. UOI]