Why is it in the news?

• The act was suggested by the central government to implement in the states. It aims to comprehensively address prison administration issues.
• It replaces the Prisons Act (1894) and incorporates relevant provisions from the Prisoners Act (1900) and Transfer of Prisoners Act (1950).

Features of the Model Act

• High Security Prison: Establishment of independent, self-sufficient prisons with enhanced security systems. Includes independent court complexes for housing gangsters and hardened criminals.
• Directorate of Prisons and Correctional Services: To implement prison policies and coordinate various prison and correctional services.
• Classification of Prisoners: Broad categories include Civil, Criminal, Convicted, Undertrial, Detenues, Habitual Offenders, and Recidivists.
• Segregate Accommodation: Provides separate facilities for various categories of prisoners. Addresses special needs of women, transgender individuals, and others.
• Staff Welfare Wing: To be established by the Head of Prisons and Correctional Services. Aids the government in implementing welfare measures for prison staff.
• Use of Technology: Aims to computerize the entire prison administration. Integrates the database with the Interoperable Criminal Justice System.
• Use of Electronic Tracking Devices: Implemented for prisoners granted leave. For instance, Jammu and Kashmir police introduced GPS tracker anklets for monitoring terror accused individuals out on bail.
• Prisoners’ Health Care: Ensures that all prisoners have access to adequate, gender-responsive healthcare facilities.