SC refuses to pass an order on release of old and ailing prisoners amid Corona

The SC rejects plea seeking the release of prisoners above 50 years of age or prisoners with pre-existing medical conditions amid corona. Advocate Amit Sahni, the petitioner, contended that the WHO has suggested that the prisoners who are already suffering from lung disease/heart diseases etc should be released from jails to avoid contracting the infection amid the outbreak of corona.

New Delhi:The Supreme Court bench led by the Chief Justice of India, SA Bobde, refused to pass an order on a PIL which sought release of prisoners above 50 years of age or prisoners with pre-existing medical conditions amid corona.

Advocate Amit Sahni, the petitioner, contended that the WHO has suggested that the prisoners who are older or are already suffering from lung disease/heart diseases etc should be released from jails to avoid contracting the infection amid the outbreak of corona.

The CJI said that the court doesn't know what the government thinks but the court feels that the case should be considered on individual case basis. He asked the petitioner, Advocate Amit Sahni, to make representation before the government.

The court directed the petition to be withdrawn with liberty to advise individual prisoners who are suffering from disease to make representation to the authorities for their release.

The bench said that they do not see any justification in passing a general blanket order.

Sahni had moved to the apex court seeking directions to the government to consider release of prisoners who are above 50 years of age or have pre existing medical conditions.