CustodyDeaths – Delhi Introduces Compensation Policy for Families of Prisoners
CustodyDeaths –The Delhi government has officially introduced a compensation policy for the families or legal heirs of prisoners who die under unnatural circumstances while lodged in prisons across the national capital. The newly notified framework outlines financial assistance ranging between ₹5 lakh and ₹7.5 lakh, with the amount determined by the nature and cause of the custodial death.
Higher Compensation for Assault and Violence Cases
According to the notification, the highest compensation of ₹7.5 lakh will be granted when a prisoner’s death results from violence between inmates or from alleged assault or torture involving jail personnel. The government has classified such incidents as the most serious cases under the scheme, providing enhanced financial support to the affected families.
For other categories of unnatural deaths, including those linked to negligence by prison authorities, lapses by medical or paramedical staff, or suicide inside prison premises, the compensation has been fixed at ₹5 lakh.
Cases Excluded from the Compensation Scheme
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta clarified that the policy does not extend to every death occurring inside a prison. The notification specifically excludes deaths caused by natural reasons or illness from the compensation framework.
In addition, no financial assistance will be provided if a prisoner dies while attempting to escape from prison or lawful custody. Deaths resulting from natural disasters, accidents arising from calamities, or similar extraordinary situations have also been kept outside the scope of the scheme.
Mandatory Documentation Before Compensation
The notification establishes a detailed reporting process to ensure that every case undergoes proper examination before compensation is approved. The superintendent of the concerned jail will be responsible for forwarding all required records to the Director General (Prisons), Delhi.
These documents will include the magisterial inquiry report, the post-mortem examination report, the officially determined cause of death, the prisoner’s medical history, and complete information regarding treatment provided before the death. The government believes that maintaining a comprehensive record in every case will help strengthen procedural transparency and accountability.
Government Emphasises Transparency and Accountability
Speaking about the new policy, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta described every unnatural custodial death as a matter of grave concern that demands careful scrutiny. She said the administration has a responsibility to ensure that every such incident is examined through a transparent process while maintaining accountability at every level.
The Chief Minister also stated that the initiative is intended to improve confidence in prison administration by ensuring that cases involving unnatural deaths are handled fairly and in accordance with legal procedures. She said the government aims to promote greater sensitivity in dealing with custodial matters while ensuring that justice is delivered wherever responsibility is established.
Focus on Strengthening Prison Administration
The newly notified compensation scheme is part of a broader effort to reinforce oversight within Delhi’s prison system. By defining clear eligibility criteria, specifying situations where compensation is applicable, and laying down mandatory documentation requirements, the government seeks to create a more structured mechanism for handling custodial death cases.
Officials believe the policy will encourage greater institutional accountability while ensuring that eligible families receive financial assistance without unnecessary ambiguity. At the same time, the exclusions outlined in the notification are intended to clearly distinguish between unnatural custodial deaths and deaths arising from medical conditions, lawful escape attempts, or unavoidable disasters.