Landmark Reform to Ensure Equality in Prisons
Tamil Nadu Prison Rules 2024: Ending Caste-Based Discrimination Behind Bars: The Tamil Nadu government has introduced sweeping changes through the Tamil Nadu Prison Rules, 2024, aimed at eliminating caste-based discrimination across its correctional facilities. These changes lay the groundwork for equal treatment of all prisoners, irrespective of caste identity, bringing progressive reform to prison governance.
Strict Ban on Manual Scavenging
As part of the revised framework, manual scavenging and dangerous cleaning work such as handling sewers or septic tanks within prisons is now completely forbidden. This update brings the prison system in full alignment with the Manual Scavenging Prohibition Act, 2013, ensuring basic dignity and workplace safety for inmates.
No Collection of Caste Details
One of the key reforms ensures caste anonymity during inmate admission. Authorities are barred from recording caste information, and no caste-related entries will be allowed in jail records. This step enforces administrative impartiality and aims to protect prisoners from systemic bias.
Equal Work Allocation Inside Jails
The revised rules require that prison duties be assigned without caste-based considerations. This reform is meant to prevent discriminatory labor practices within correctional institutions and to promote a more just and inclusive system of prison administration.
STATIC GK SNAPSHOT
Tamil Nadu Prison Rules 2024: Ending Caste-Based Discrimination Behind Bars:
| Topic | Details |
| Name of Reform | Tamil Nadu Prison Rules, 2024 |
| Main Objective | Eradication of caste-based discrimination in jails |
| Manual Scavenging Policy | Banned under compliance with 2013 legislation |
| Caste Data at Admission | Collection and recording of caste information now prohibited |
| Prison Work Allocation | Must be caste-neutral and fairly distributed |
| State Introducing Reform | Tamil Nadu |
| Supporting Legislation | Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers Act, 2013 |
