Sohail Vij, Independent Advocate, Graduate- Symbiosis Law School, Pune
Research Question: “How is India reforming its Prison System post-independence? What are the major prison reforms still needed and possible solutions for it?”
Statement of Problem
Of all the different theories of punishment Rehabilitative also known as Reformative Theory is considered to be the most effective in reducing recidivism rates in prisons and it is well regarded for its humane practices. Reformative theories success can be attributed to its desire to try and reform the offender as a person so that he/she may become a law-abiding member of the community once again.1 So, I wanted to know to what extent has the Indian Prison System been able to utilize the reformative theory of punishment for the offenders, since independence, and how the offenders in India are given an opportunity for self-growth. At the same time, what are the challenges prison reforms in India face and what are the possible solutions for the same.
