CM Yogi orders simplified policy for premature release of ill, elderly, and disabled prisoners

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday directed officials to frame a transparent and humane policy for the premature release of prisoners suffering from serious illnesses, old age, or disability, in line with Supreme Court guidelines.

He stressed that eligible prisoners should be considered automatically without needing to apply separately.

Chairing a review meeting on prison administration and reform services, the Chief Minister instructed a statewide survey to identify inmates with fatal diseases, the elderly, and helpless prisoners, with priority given to their release. He also directed that women and aged convicts be included in the priority list.

The Chief Minister said the jail manual must clearly define which illnesses qualify as incurable. However, he made it clear that premature release would not apply to those convicted of heinous crimes such as murder, terrorism, treason, and crimes against women and children, stressing that public safety must remain paramount.

To ensure fairness, CM Yogi proposed that eligible cases be reviewed automatically three times a year—in January, May, and September—with reasons for rejection recorded and prisoners granted the right to challenge such decisions.

He further suggested engaging inmates in constructive activities like agriculture and cow service during their jail term. Officials informed him that the model recommended by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) is also under consideration for adoption in Uttar Pradesh.

The Chief Minister directed officials to prepare a draft of the new policy at the earliest, ensuring that the process is fair, swift, and guided by human sensibilities.