By Chandan Singh | Page 3 News Worldwide | New Delhi
New Delhi: In a significant move aimed at strengthening accountability in prison administration, the Delhi Government has notified a compensation scheme providing financial relief of up to ₹7.5 lakh to the families of prisoners who suffer unnatural deaths while in custody, says Chief Minister Rekha Gupta.
The newly notified Scheme for Payment of Compensation on Account of Death of Prisoners in Delhi Prison, 2025 provides compensation based on the circumstances of each case and aligns with the guidelines of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). The scheme applies to unnatural deaths occurring in Delhi prisons on or after the date of its notification.
Under the policy, families of prisoners who die due to inmate clashes or alleged torture or assault by prison personnel will receive ₹7.5 lakh, while ₹5 lakh will be granted in cases involving negligence by prison authorities, medical negligence, or prisoner suicide.
The notification clearly states that no compensation will be paid for natural deaths or deaths caused by illness. Deaths occurring during escape attempts, lawful custody operations, or due to natural disasters and calamities are also excluded from the scheme.
To ensure transparency, the concerned Jail Superintendent must submit a magisterial inquiry report, post-mortem findings, medical records, treatment details, and the final cause of death to the Director General (Prisons). A review committee headed by the Director General (Prisons) will examine every case before recommending compensation for government approval. After payment, the National Human Rights Commission will be informed.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said the Delhi Government remains committed to protecting human dignity, the rule of law, and constitutional values. She said every unnatural custodial death is a matter of serious concern and emphasised that the government’s priority is to ensure transparency, accountability, and justice while making prison administration more sensitive and responsible.
