Caste-based discrimination has long been a deeply entrenched issue in India, permeating various facets of society, including its criminal justice system. Within India’s prisons, caste hierarchies often exacerbate the plight of marginalized communities, especially Dalits and other lower-caste groups. These prisoners frequently experience mistreatment, segregation, and unequal access to basic rights such as healthcare, food, and education, further perpetuating cycles of poverty and social exclusion.
Source:- -bbc news
Addressing caste-based discrimination in prisons is not only a moral imperative but also a critical step toward achieving substantive equality in India. The Indian Constitution guarantees equality before the law, yet systemic discrimination within the prison system undermines these principles. To eradicate such practices, reforms must be introduced that promote fairness and dignity for all incarcerated individuals, regardless of their caste.
Key measures should include anti-discrimination training for prison staff, strict enforcement of laws prohibiting caste-based abuse, and the establishment of oversight mechanisms to monitor the treatment of prisoners. Additionally, ensuring equal access to education, vocational training, and rehabilitation programs for all prisoners can help break the cycle of marginalization. Encouraging representation of lower-caste groups within prison administration can further foster a more inclusive environment.
Civil society organizations, legal experts, and policymakers must collaborate to create a comprehensive strategy to end caste-based oppression within prisons. By addressing these issues head-on, India can take a significant step toward realizing its vision of a just and equitable society, where the fundamental rights of all individuals, regardless of caste, are respected and upheld.
Eradicating caste-based discrimination in India’s prisons is essential not only for reforming the criminal justice system but also for promoting substantive equality and social justice across the nation.
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