Chandigarh, Feb 2: The Punjab and Haryana High Court has ordered the states of Punjab and Haryana to create a joint comparative chart detailing their specific criteria for prisoner remission and premature release. During a hearing on Monday, a Division Bench led by Chief Justice Sheel Nagu noted that varying frameworks are currently being utilized across the region to determine inmate eligibility.
This judicial intervention follows a Supreme Court directive for High Courts to oversee jail reforms and ensure the lawful implementation of release policies. The Bench noted that while Chandigarh adheres to Punjab’s guidelines, Haryana operates under a separate statutory system, resulting in discrepancies in how prisoners are assessed for early release.
The court has granted both states three weeks to submit the documentation alongside supporting affidavits. This move is intended to streamline monitoring efforts and ensure that the process remains consistent with established legal standards.
“We have been asked to monitor. So, how will we monitor unless we come to know that what you are doing is correct, or in accordance with law?” the Bench remarked while addressing the state representatives. The court further noted, “It is obvious that there are some minor differences so far as eligibility of prisoners entitled for remission is concerned.”
