New Delhi, August 2: The Delhi government has introduced a compensation scheme for the families of prisoners who die unnaturally while in custody in the National Capital Region’s prisons.
Under this initiative, compensation amounts ranging from ₹500,000 to ₹750,000 will be provided based on various circumstances. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta stated that this scheme, notified in accordance with the guidelines of the National Human Rights Commission, aims to offer timely relief to affected families while strengthening administrative accountability.
The notification from the Delhi government’s Home (General) Department outlines that this scheme, titled “Compensation Payment Scheme for Death of Prisoners in Delhi Prisons 2025,” will apply only to cases of unnatural deaths occurring on or after the notification date in any Delhi prison.
According to the notification, families of deceased prisoners will receive ₹750,000 if the death results from fights among inmates or alleged torture or assault by prison staff. In cases of negligence by jail officials or medical personnel, or if a prisoner commits suicide, the compensation will be set at ₹500,000.
It is clarified in the notification that no compensation will be granted for deaths due to natural causes or illness. Additionally, deaths resulting from escape attempts or disasters are also excluded from this scheme. The relevant jail superintendent must submit a magistrate’s inquiry report, post-mortem report, cause of death, the prisoner’s medical history, and treatment details to the Director General (Prisons) of Delhi for each case.
A committee chaired by the Director General (Prisons) will review these cases. The committee will include the Assistant Inspector General (Prisons), Resident Medical Officer, Deputy Controller (Accounts), and a legal officer. Based on the committee’s recommendations, a proposal for compensation approval will be sent to the department’s administrative secretary. The notification also mandates that after the compensation is paid, the relevant jail superintendent must inform the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta emphasized the Delhi government’s commitment to the rule of law, human dignity, and constitutional values. She stated that unnatural deaths during custody are a serious issue, and ensuring transparency, accountability, and lawful action in such cases is the government’s responsibility. The aim is to enhance transparency, sensitivity, and accountability in prison administration while ensuring justice in every case.
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