UP Govt To Implement Permanent Policy For Premature Prisoner Release; Women, Elderly To Benefit First

In line with Supreme Court directives, the Uttar Pradesh government will soon implement a permanent policy for the premature release of prisoners, particularly those suffering from serious illnesses. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has instructed that the rules be drafted in a simpler, clearer, and more humane manner to ensure transparency and efficiency.

During a review meeting of the Prison Administration and Reform Services, Yogi emphasised that eligible prisoners should be released automatically under a defined procedure, without the need for separate applications. However, he clarified that convicts involved in murder, terrorism, sedition, and heinous crimes against women and children will not be considered for premature release.

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The Chief Minister directed officials to prepare a draft policy based on fairness, speed, and humanitarian considerations.

The policy will cover:

• Convicts with life-threatening illnesses who have a chance of recovery if released.
• Convicts permanently incapable of committing crimes due to old age, infirmity, or chronic illness.
• Convicts suffering from fatal illnesses or severe disabilities with a high probability of death in the near future.

A survey of such prisoners will be conducted across all jails to assess actual numbers, with women and elderly prisoners given priority for release. The jail manual will also clearly define which diseases are considered incurable.

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Yogi stressed that society’s security remains paramount, and premature release should be granted only when there is no risk to public safety. The policy will also mandate that eligible prisoners’ cases be reviewed automatically three times a year, in January, May, and September, with reasons clearly stated if release is denied.

In addition, the Chief Minister highlighted the importance of utilising prisoners’ jail terms productively, including activities such as agriculture and cow service (goseva). Officials also reported that the state is considering adopting the system suggested by the National Legal Services Authority, ensuring prisoners can fully exercise their judicial rights.