Delhi High Court Questions Prison Communication Ban

The Delhi High Court has sought responses from the Delhi government and the NIA on a plea challenging a circular that restricts e-mulakat and phone facilities for certain prisoners. The petitioner, Masasasong AO, argues that the circular violates fundamental rights by restricting communication with family without valid justification.

The Delhi High Court has asked the Delhi government and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to respond to a plea challenging a circular that limits e-mulakat and phone facilities for prisoners without a no-objection certificate from investigating agencies.

Justice Sanjeev Narula issued notices in response to a petition by Masasasong AO, who argued that the circular, issued in April, violates fundamental rights. Represented by Advocate M S Khan, Masasasong stressed the importance of communication facilities for staying in touch with family, particularly his minor children and ailing parents.

The circular impacts prisoners involved in serious offenses and requires additional scrutiny for security reasons. While it allows prison superintendents to make case-by-case decisions with higher approvals, critics argue it discriminates against inmates and infringes fundamental rights guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution.

(With inputs from agencies.)