KL Report
SRINAGAR
Taking suo moto cognizance of the news reports highlighting living conditions of inmates in central jail Srinagar, the State Human Rights comission (SHRC) has issued notice to state home department asking for a detail report on the issue.
In an order received by KNS, Rafiq Fida, member SHRC, has asked the registry of the Commission to treat the news item as a complaint and issue notices alongwith a copy of the news report to Principal Secretary to Government (Home) Department, DGP, ADGP Prisons and Superintendent Central Jail Srinagar for submitting their respective factual reports in the matter.
“The Commission deems it proper to visit the Central Jail Srinagar on 10.10.2013 and have an on spot inspection of the living condition of the inmates and the basic facilities being provided to them. Secretary of the Commission is directed to inform the Government and Superintendent Central Jail Srinagar regarding the proposed inspection by the Commission,” the Commission’s order reads.
The order reads that media had covered the issue highlighting that the inmates of Central Jail Srinagar have decided to approach and bring in the notice of Sessions Court Srinagar the facts regarding inhuman and ill-treatment at the hands of Jail authorities as they are allegedly being provided with worst drainage system, substandard food and medicines and are being deprived of medical care when required and the patients are not being given due care and treatment.
“The newspaper goes on to report that they have brought their grievances in the notice of Jail authorities but nothing has been done and their living condition is deteriorated and worst. The news item prima facie discloses violation of human rights. It be made clear that Fundamental Rights, under Article 21 of the Constitution, are available to detenues whether in preventive detention, under trial or convicted. Therefore, Suo Motto cognizance is hereby taken into the matter,” reads the Commission’s order.
