NHRC Issues Guidelines for Women Prisoners, Children

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a fresh advisory calling for better protection of the rights and welfare of women prisoners and their children across the country.

The advisory stresses the need for safe and humane prison environments, proper medical facilities, mental health support, legal assistance and improved living conditions. It also highlights the importance of maintaining family bonds, safeguarding children’s interests and ensuring rehabilitation and social reintegration for female inmates.

The recommendations cover ten key areas, including admission records, documentation of children living with their mothers in prisons, healthcare services, sanitation, hygiene and access to justice.

The NHRC has circulated the advisory to nine Union Ministries, as well as the Chief Secretaries and Directors General of Police of all States and Union Territories. It has urged the concerned authorities to implement the recommendations and submit an Action Taken Report within two months.