A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in the Calcutta High Court has raised concerns about women inmates getting pregnant while in jail. The PIL specifically requests the court to prohibit the employment of male employees in areas where women prisoners are kept. According to reports, the matter was brought to the attention of Chief Justice TS Sivagnanam and Justice Supratim Bhattacharya, who acknowledged the seriousness of the issue.
In court, the amicus informed the Calcutta High Court that 196 babies have been born in prisons so far, highlighting the need for the safety of women incarcerated in these facilities. The amicus argued for a complete prohibition of male employees in the enclosures where women prisoners are held.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Chief Justice Sivagnanam ordered the transfer of all prison reform PILs to the bench responsible for hearing criminal matters. Emphasizing the severity of the issue, the Chief Justice stated, The issue brought to our notice is a serious one. We deem it fit to transfer all these matters (prison reforms PILs) to the bench hearing criminal matters.
This PIL sheds light on a crucial matter regarding the welfare of women inmates in Kolkata’s correctional homes. The alarming number of pregnancies occurring within the prison system raises questions about the overall safety and security provided to these women. The call to prohibit the employment of male employees in women’s enclosures aims to address this issue directly.
It remains to be seen how the Calcutta High Court will respond to the PIL and what measures will be taken to ensure the well-being and protection of women prisoners. As the legal proceedings unfold, it is imperative to prioritize the safety and dignity of incarcerated women, creating a conducive environment for their reformation and rehabilitation.
In conclusion, the filing of the PIL regarding the pregnancy of women inmates inside Kolkata’s correctional homes underscores the need for comprehensive reforms and safeguards within the prison system. The gravity of the issue has prompted the Calcutta High Court to transfer related matters to the bench responsible for criminal cases. It is hoped that this move will facilitate a careful examination of the issue and lead to the implementation of measures that prioritize the safety and well-being of women prisoners.
