On Wednesday, the Delhi High Court took suo motu cognizance regarding the establishment and management of Open Correctional Institutions (OCIs) in response to a Supreme Court directive. OCIs, which differ from traditional prisons by offering a reform-focused environment with minimal security, are intended for inmates demonstrating good conduct. The court ordered the Delhi government to form a monitoring committee led by the executive chairman of the State Legal Services Authority, including the home secretary and a senior prisons officer. This committee will ensure compliance with the Supreme Court's February 26 order, which addressed overcrowding in jails and emphasized the need for effective rehabilitation through OCIs. The high court instructed the committee to devise strategies for implementing the Supreme Court's directives, assess the current situation, and identify eligible prisoners for transfer to open prisons. The matter is set for further hearing on July 24.