NCJ Number
84491
Journal
Indian Journal of Social Work Volume: 43 Issue: 1 Dated: (April 1982) Pages: 41-51
Date Published
1982
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This paper reviews policy shifts in institutional corrections in India, starting from before 1836 and ending in 1981. It concludes that more resources and improved coordination between the jails and the rest of the criminal justice system are sorely needed.
Abstract
The policy thrust of institutional corrections in India focuses on the reformation of offenders. This has not come about spontaneously. In ancient times, punishment, including imprisonment, was inflicted on wrong-doers to promote 'religious merit' and security in the community. However, in the medieval period, justice was predominantly retributive and swift, and imprisonment uncommon. Until 1919, jails mainly aimed at safe and secure incarceration. When the British left in 1947, reformatory ideals were gradually gaining acceptance, and jails were offering treatment programs. The post-Independence period is characterized by uncertainties: the policymakers had intentions but hardly any viable program to improve the system. Nevertheless, since 1977 some changes have been made. A total of 18 references are provided. (Author abstract modified)