Himachal Pradesh Reforms Prison Manual for Equality

The Himachal Pradesh government has amended its Prison Manual to eliminate caste-based discrimination among inmates. The changes prohibit caste-based work allocation, manual scavenging, and require the removal of caste information from records, establishing more inclusive and fair prison operations.

The Himachal Pradesh administration has taken a significant step towards promoting equality by amending its Prison Manual. The recent changes effectively remove caste-based provisions that previously dictated work allocation among inmates.

A new clause ensures that no prisoner will face discrimination based on caste, particularly in work assignments. Additionally, the manual now prohibits prisoners from engaging in manual scavenging or maintaining sewer systems and septic tanks.

The revised manual also introduces a clear definition of what constitutes a habitual offender. These amendments aim to uphold the principles of dignity, equality, and justice within the state's correctional facilities, according to a government spokesperson.