Prisoners Are Human Too

But when will the police start treating them with dignity?

In a recent directive, the Bombay High Court warned the Maharashtra police against handcuffing prisoners in court. This is not the first time the High Court has censured the police on this issue. Some years ago, it had warned them against handcuffing prisoners and travelling with them on public transport.

Whatever the reason, prisoners must be assured their basic rights and spared torture. Statistics of the National Crime Bureau and Human Rights Commission show that Maharashtra is among the top five states with a dismal record of police excess, specifically custodial torture. Out on the street, the police may be forced to restrain themselves. But inside police stations and cells, they can do as they please. Custodial deaths have increased, according to the statistics. Despite torture, prisoners do not complain to judges for fear of more once back in prison.

Check the prisoners who are brought to court and you will see enough evidence of police cruelty. They show up with puffed faces, broken knees and pulled fingernails. Often, they are even denied a visit to the bathroom, for fear that they might escape. And prisoners often have to pay extra money to be able to have a somewhat palatable meal. Women prisoners are the worst affected. No one comes to meet them, nor are they aggressive enough to demand their rights.

Courts may take on the role of a crusader where the rights of prisoners are concerned, but it will be difficult to change the mindset of a policeman whose interrogation methods may never be revealed in courtrooms by scared prisoners.