Court Mandates Compliance with Supreme Court's Directive by September 25, 2026
In a significant development, the Tripura High Court has expressed dissatisfaction with the State Government's delay in complying with the Supreme Court's directives regarding the establishment of Open Correctional Infrastructure (OCI) in the state. The Division Bench, comprising Chief Justice M.S. Ramachandra Rao and Justice Biswajit Palit, has instructed the State to comply with the Supreme Court's judgment in the case of Suhas Chakma vs. Union of India by September 25, 2026.
The court took suo moto cognizance of the matter, highlighting the lack of progress in assessing and expanding prison infrastructure as per the Supreme Court's instructions. The Supreme Court, in its judgment dated February 26, 2026, had mandated all States and Union Territories to undertake comprehensive assessments of their prison infrastructure within three months. This was to identify suitable locations for new OCIs and to create semi-open barracks within existing prisons.
Despite the Supreme Court's clear directives, the Tripura State Government has yet to complete the necessary assessments or prepare a time-bound action plan. Instead, the State Level Monitoring Committee proposed conducting a study of OCIs in other states, which the High Court deemed a delay tactic.
The High Court criticized the State Government's laid-back approach, emphasizing the urgency and necessity of adhering to the Supreme Court's timelines. The court pointed out that the required actions, including the identification of locations for new OCIs and the creation of semi-open barracks, should have been completed by May 26, 2026. The court expressed its disappointment over the state's failure to act within the stipulated timeframe, thereby delaying the implementation of crucial reforms in the prison system.
The High Court has directed the respondents to ensure compliance with the Supreme Court's judgment by September 25, 2026. The matter is scheduled for further hearing on September 28, 2026, to review the State's progress.
Bottom Line :
Compliance with Supreme Court directions regarding the establishment and expansion of Open Correctional Infrastructure (OCI) is mandatory. State Governments must adhere to the timelines for assessment and action plans, as laid down by the Supreme Court.
Statutory provision(s):
- Supreme Court directions on Open Correctional Infrastructure from Suhas Chakma vs. Union of India, WP(C) No.1082/2020
Court on its own motion v. State of Tripura, (Tripura)(DB) : Law Finder Doc id # 2969148
