In a recent development, Justice S.M. Subramaniam of the Madras High Court has urged the Tamil Nadu government to consider implementing conjugal visits for prison inmates across the state.
Conjugal visits, a concept already being practised in Punjab, would allow prisoners to spend private time with their spouses within the prison premises, fostering physical intimacy and the possibility of procreation.
Justice Subramaniam's call for conjugal visits came after conducting a surprise inspection at the Puzhal Central Prison in Chennai, along with the Tiruvallur Principal District Judge and the Chief Judicial Magistrate, on July 8. Following the inspection, the judge held a review meeting on July 25, during which he expressed concern over the plight of 38 prisoners in Puzhal who had been granted bail but were unable to secure sureties for their release. He directed the Tamil Nadu State Legal Services Authority (TNSLSA) to modify the bail orders to facilitate the prisoners' release on their bond, in accordance with a Supreme Court directive.
Apart from advocating conjugal visits, Justice Subramaniam put forth several other recommendations to reform the prison system in the state. He stressed the need for timely and adequate medical aid for inmates, installation of fans in prison cells, and regular cleaning of inmate toilets. The judge also emphasized the importance of allowing foreign nationals lodged in prisons to establish contact with their families.
Furthermore, he called for special attention to be given to prisoners with chronic diseases and physical disabilities, suggesting their consideration for premature release. The judge also urged the authorities to provide escort facilities to transport sick prisoners to government hospitals before 8 a.m., as the outpatient services close by 11 a.m. daily.
In addition to these reforms, Justice Subramaniam highlighted the lack of toilet facilities for women visitors and women lawyers at the Puzhal Central Prison. He directed the state to take immediate action to provide adequate and clean toilets for women visitors and lawyers, while also ensuring additional facilities for male visitors and lawyers.
During the review meeting, the judge also urged the TNSLSA to identify prisoners who cannot afford private legal representation and provide them with legal assistance.
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