Insaaf Times Desk

The latest report by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), Prison Statistics India 2023, has highlighted overcrowding in prisons across the country and the rising number of undertrial prisoners. Bihar’s prisons are part of this national trend, with the inmate population steadily increasing.

Bihar has a total of 59 prisons, including eight central jails. According to the report, the state’s prisons are operating at an average of 173% capacity. This overcrowding is not only putting pressure on the administration but also affecting the safety and facilities for inmates.

In 2023, the proportion of undertrial prisoners in Bihar’s jails exceeded 74%, up from 72% in 2022. The NCRB report indicates that this points to delays in the judicial process and difficulties related to bail.

The report also revealed an increase in unnatural deaths, particularly suicides, in Bihar’s prisons. Compared to 2022, cases of suicide slightly rose in 2023, highlighting ongoing challenges regarding mental health and inmate safety.

Former Bihar DGP Abhayanand said, “The primary purpose of a jail was meant to be a correctional home, but it has effectively become a prison. To reduce overcrowding and implement a corrective system, it is essential to develop prisons as proper reform institutions.” He also noted that under the liquor prohibition law, a significant number of arrested prisoners are contributing to the rising undertrial population.

The NCRB 2023 report underscores the urgent need for reform in Bihar’s prisons. Overcrowding, a high proportion of undertrial prisoners, and mental health issues pose significant challenges for the state government. The administration will need to take concrete steps to improve prison conditions, ensure safety, and expedite the judicial process.