Daijiworld Media Network - Goa

Goa, Oct 29: The Goa Human Rights Commission (GHRC) has raised concerns over 19 undertrial prisoners remaining in custody at Modern Central Jail in Colvale despite being granted bail, reportedly because they are unable to arrange the required surety money.

The Commission stressed that poverty should not become an obstacle to the liberty of undertrial prisoners who have been granted bail, calling for a sympathetic administrative and judicial approach to ensure that people are not kept behind bars solely because of their financial circumstances.

The GHRC visited Modern Central Jail, Colvale, on October 13 to assess the living conditions, infrastructure and welfare facilities available to inmates and interact with them to understand their concerns.

In a report dated October 23, the Commission highlighted the need to address the continued detention of prisoners who have secured bail but cannot meet the financial requirements for their release.

The Commission also flagged concerns regarding overcrowded cells, damaged mosquito nets and lapses in medical care at the prison, pointing to issues requiring attention to improve inmates’ living conditions and welfare.

The findings have renewed attention on the challenges faced by economically disadvantaged undertrials and the need to ensure that financial hardship does not prevent them from securing their release after bail has been granted.