Haryana Human Rights Commission Raises Alarm Over Prison Suicides and Conditions
Suicides, unnatural deaths in Haryana prisons disturbing, says rights panel
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
The Haryana Human Rights Commission (HHRC) has expressed grave concerns over the alarming rise in suicides and unnatural deaths in Haryana prisons, with 15 prisoners reported to have taken their lives in 2024. The commission has directed state officials to report on measures taken to address mental health issues, overcrowding, and violence within the prison system.
- 01The HHRC described the situation in Haryana prisons as a 'grave human rights concern' due to rising incidents of suicides and unnatural deaths.
- 02The commission's directive includes a request for reports from the Additional Chief Secretary (home), Additional Chief Secretary (health), and the Director General of Prisons.
- 03The NCRB's 'Prison Statistics India–2024' report highlights the need for sustained intervention in mental healthcare for prisoners.
- 04The HHRC emphasized that prisoners are entitled to constitutional rights, including dignity and health protection under Article 21 of the Constitution of India.
- 05The DGP (prisons) is required to provide detailed reports on unnatural deaths, suicides, and incidents of violence in prisons over the last three years.
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The Haryana Human Rights Commission (HHRC) has raised serious concerns regarding the rising number of suicides and unnatural deaths in Haryana's prisons, reporting that 15 prisoners committed suicide in 2024 alone. In its order dated May 13, the HHRC, led by retired Justice Lalit Batra, highlighted the alarming findings from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) report titled 'Prison Statistics India–2024'. The commission called for immediate action from state officials, including the Additional Chief Secretary (home), Additional Chief Secretary (health), and the Director General of Prisons (DGP). It emphasized that prisoners should not be deprived of their constitutional rights to live with dignity and receive adequate mental healthcare as guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India. The HHRC directed the ACS (home) to report on state-level policies for preventing custodial suicides and violence, while the ACS (health) must provide information on the availability of mental health professionals in prisons. The DGP is tasked with compiling data on unnatural deaths, suicides, and violent incidents over the past three years, along with addressing issues of overcrowding and contraband circulation. The next hearing on this matter is scheduled for August 13.
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The increased focus on mental health and safety in prisons could lead to improved conditions for inmates, addressing critical issues like overcrowding and mental health support.
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