The Supreme Court has issued comprehensive directions to safeguard the rights of prisoners with disabilities across the country.
The bench of Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta has transferred oversight of compliance to a High-Powered Committee constituted in Suhas Chakma v. Union of India. The Committee has been tasked with: Reviewing compliance reports from all States and UTs; Formulating a uniform national action plan for accessibility; Ensuring provision and maintenance of assistive devices; Monitoring implementation through periodic reviews; and Engaging experts, civil society, and specialised institutions
The case raised critical concerns regarding the treatment, accessibility, and institutional safeguards available to prisoners with disabilities. The Court noted that despite the mandate of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, its effective implementation within prisons remained inconsistent.
The bench relied on its earlier landmark ruling in L. Muruganantham v. State of Tamil Nadu, which had already laid down an extensive framework requiring: identification of disabled prisoners at entry, accessible infrastructure, assistive devices, healthcare, staff sensitisation, and periodic audits.
Recognising gaps in compliance, the Court issued additional directions to ensure uniform implementation across all States and Union Territories. Key mandates include establishment of independent and accessible grievance redressal mechanisms for disabled inmates; ensuring inclusive education opportunities within prisons; application of Section 89 of the RPwD Act to prison systems; development of structured systems for assistive devices and mobility aids; and grant of enhanced visitation rights for prisoners with benchmark disabilities.
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The Court emphasised that these measures are essential to prevent “systemic neglect, abuse and discriminatory practices” within custodial environments.
The Court noted that this approach would ensure a cohesive, expert-driven, and continuous monitoring mechanism, avoiding fragmented enforcement across jurisdictions.
The court directed the States and Union Territories to submit compliance affidavits before the Committee within six weeks. Extend full cooperation and provide necessary data and infrastructure support. Participate actively through senior-level representation
The Committee is expected to submit a consolidated status report within four months, detailing progress and challenges.
Reaffirming constitutional values, the Court stressed that prisoners with disabilities are entitled to dignity, equality, and substantive justice, and that prison administration must adopt a humane, rights-based approach.
Case Details
Case Title: Sathyan Naravoor Versus UOI
Citation: JURISHOUR-936-SC-2026
Case No.: Writ Petition (Civil) No(S). 182 Of 2025
Date: 21/04/2026
