The Supreme Court has directed all States and Union Territories to formulate and implement a comprehensive policy for the early or premature release of prisoners who are of advanced age or are terminally ill. The Court directed that the policy be framed and notified within three months to ensure a uniform mechanism for considering such cases across the country.

A bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta issued the directions by invoking its extraordinary powers under Article 142 of the Constitution while deciding a public interest litigation seeking a humane and uniform framework for the release of elderly and seriously ill prisoners.

The Apex Court also directed that the entire process of considering applications for early or premature release be integrated with the e-Prisons portal to ensure transparency and accountability.