{"id":31764,"date":"2026-09-07T05:47:30","date_gmt":"2026-09-07T05:47:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/?p=31764"},"modified":"2026-09-07T05:51:52","modified_gmt":"2026-09-07T05:51:52","slug":"open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/","title":{"rendered":"Open Prisons in India: Freedom with Responsibility and a Second Chance"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 id=\"h-introduction\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Introduction\"><\/span>Introduction<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Open prisons represent one of the most progressive ideas in modern prison administration. They are based on the principle of reformative justice\u2014the belief that imprisonment should not merely punish a person for a crime but should also help them change, develop responsibility, and return to society as a law-abiding citizen.<\/p><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_87 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #0c0c0c;color:#0c0c0c\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #0c0c0c;color:#0c0c0c\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/#Introduction\" >Introduction<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/#From_Punishment_to_Reform\" >From Punishment to Reform<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/#What_Makes_an_Open_Prison_Different\" >What Makes an Open Prison Different?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/#Who_Can_Be_Sent_to_an_Open_Prison\" >Who Can Be Sent to an Open Prison?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/#Open_Prisons_Across_India\" >Open Prisons Across India<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/#The_Numbers_Tell_an_Important_Story\" >The Numbers Tell an Important Story<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/#Why_Open_Prisons_Matter\" >Why Open Prisons Matter<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/#Rehabilitation_Through_Responsibility\" >Rehabilitation Through Responsibility<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/#Reduced_Overcrowding\" >Reduced Overcrowding<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/#Lower_Costs\" >Lower Costs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/#Employment_and_Skills\" >Employment and Skills<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/#Preservation_of_Family_Relationships\" >Preservation of Family Relationships<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/#Better_Preparation_for_Release\" >Better Preparation for Release<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/#Human_Dignity\" >Human Dignity<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/#Reduced_Risk_of_Institutionalization\" >Reduced Risk of Institutionalization<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/#The_Supreme_Courts_Renewed_Push\" >The Supreme Court&#8217;s Renewed Push<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/#The_Special_Need_to_Include_Women\" >The Special Need to Include Women<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/#Should_Under-Trial_Prisoners_Also_Be_Considered\" >Should Under-Trial Prisoners Also Be Considered?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/#Open_Prisons_for_Undertrial_Prisoners_The_Jharkhand_Model\" >Open Prisons for Undertrial Prisoners: The Jharkhand Model<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/#Open_Prisons_and_the_Gandhian_Idea_of_Reform\" >Open Prisons and the Gandhian Idea of Reform<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/#The_Road_Ahead\" >The Road Ahead<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/#Conclusion_From_Walls_to_Rehabilitation\" >Conclusion: From Walls to Rehabilitation<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Unlike traditional closed prisons, open prisons do not depend on high walls, locked cells, barbed wire, and constant armed supervision. Instead, they rely on trust, self-discipline, work, and responsibility. Prisoners who have demonstrated good conduct and a genuine willingness to reform may be allowed greater freedom while remaining subject to reasonable rules and supervision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The idea is simple: a prisoner who learns to live responsibly with freedom is better prepared to live responsibly after release.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-from-punishment-to-reform\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"From_Punishment_to_Reform\"><\/span>From Punishment to Reform<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">India&#8217;s conventional prison system continues to face serious problems, including overcrowding, limited resources, poor living conditions, and inadequate opportunities for rehabilitation. Open prisons provide an alternative model that can reduce pressure on closed institutions while giving suitable prisoners a realistic opportunity to rebuild their lives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The concept also reflects the constitutional philosophy of human dignity. Article 21 of the Constitution protects the right to life and personal liberty, which includes the right to live with dignity. Article 39A promotes equal justice and access to legal assistance. Prison administration must therefore balance security with the possibility of reform and rehabilitation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Supreme Court strongly endorsed open prisons in <em>Rama Murthy v. State of Karnataka (1996)<\/em>. The Court recognized open-air prisons as an effective method of preparing prisoners for their return to society and encouraged the establishment of more such institutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-what-makes-an-open-prison-different\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Makes_an_Open_Prison_Different\"><\/span>What Makes an Open Prison Different?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The essential difference is the relationship between freedom and responsibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In a conventional prison, movement is tightly controlled, and prisoners generally remain behind walls and locked gates. In an open prison, selected prisoners may be allowed to move within or outside the institution for approved purposes, work during the day, and return at a specified time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The system does not mean complete freedom. Prisoners remain under lawful custody and must follow the conditions imposed by prison authorities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, Rajasthan&#8217;s open-prison model permits selected prisoners to live and work in relatively open surroundings. In West Bengal, open-air correctional homes provide eligible prisoners with greater freedom of movement during the day, subject to the requirement that they return to the institution at night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some open-prison models, e.g., Lalgola in West Bengal, also permit family members to live with prisoners. Such arrangements can preserve family relationships and reduce the social and psychological damage caused by prolonged imprisonment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-who-can-be-sent-to-an-open-prison\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_Can_Be_Sent_to_an_Open_Prison\"><\/span>Who Can Be Sent to an Open Prison?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Admission is not automatic. Eligibility varies from state to state and depends upon the prisoner&#8217;s conduct, sentence, risk level, reformative progress, and other factors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Generally, authorities consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Good conduct inside prison;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Willingness to participate in work and rehabilitation;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Low risk of escape or violence;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ability to live responsibly with greater freedom;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Family and social circumstances;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Remaining period of sentence; and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The likelihood of successful reintegration into society.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The modern approach should not depend only on how much of a sentence a prisoner has completed. Conduct, rehabilitation,Criminal Law > Open Prisons in India: Prison Reform, Rehabilitation &amp; Supreme Court and the person&#8217;s potential to return safely to society should also be important considerations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-open-prisons-across-india\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Open_Prisons_Across_India\"><\/span>Open Prisons Across India<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rajasthan has developed one of India&#8217;s most established open-prison systems. The Sanganer Open Air Camp in Jaipur, established in 1954, is widely regarded as a pioneering example. Its model allows suitable prisoners to work and, in appropriate circumstances, live with their families while remaining subject to prison rules.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Other states have also developed open or semi-open institutions. Maharashtra, Kerala, and West Bengal have significant experience in this area. West Bengal operates Open Air Correctional Homes, including facilities at Lalgola, Durgapur, Midnapore, and Raiganj.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These institutions demonstrate that imprisonment and freedom do not necessarily have to be complete opposites. A carefully regulated degree of freedom can itself become a tool of rehabilitation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-the-numbers-tell-an-important-story\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Numbers_Tell_an_Important_Story\"><\/span>The Numbers Tell an Important Story<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to NCRB&#8217;s Prison Statistics India 2024, as of 31 December 2024, India had 103 open jails out of 1,333 prisons. Their sanctioned capacity was 8,054 prisoners, but only 4,640 prisoners were actually housed in them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Open Prison Indicator<\/th><th>Figure<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Open jails in India<\/td><td>103<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Total prisons<\/td><td>1,333<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Sanctioned capacity of open jails<\/td><td>8,054 prisoners<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Prisoners actually housed in open jails<\/td><td>4,640 prisoners<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Open-prison capacity utilizationCriminal Law > Open Prisons in India: Prison Reform, Rehabilitation &amp; Supreme Court<\/td><td>About 58%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>National prison occupancy rate<\/td><td>Approximately 112.7%<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Rajasthan open prisons<\/td><td>51<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Maharashtra opens prisons.<\/td><td>19<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This means that open prisons were operating at only about 58% of their total capacity, even though India&#8217;s overall prison system was facing substantial overcrowding. The national prison occupancy rate was approximately 112.7%, with more prisoners being held than the available sanctioned capacity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The contrast is significant: closed prisons are overcrowded while many open prisons have unused capacity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rajasthan had the largest number of open prisons, with 51, followed by Maharashtra with 19. In terms of prisoners housed in open jails, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, West Bengal, and Kerala were among the leading states.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These figures suggest that the problem is not simply a lack of prison space. It is also a question of how effectively existing open-prison capacity is being used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-why-open-prisons-matter\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Open_Prisons_Matter\"><\/span>Why Open Prisons Matter<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Open prisons offer several important advantages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-rehabilitation-through-responsibility\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Rehabilitation_Through_Responsibility\"><\/span>Rehabilitation Through Responsibility<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Freedom is used as an incentive for good conduct. Prisoners learn that responsible behavior brings greater trust and greater responsibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-reduced-overcrowding\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Reduced_Overcrowding\"><\/span>Reduced Overcrowding<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Moving suitable prisoners from closed prisons to open institutions can reduce pressure on overcrowded jails.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-lower-costs\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Lower_Costs\"><\/span>Lower Costs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Open prisons generally require fewer security arrangements and less infrastructure than high-security closed prisons. This can significantly reduce the cost of imprisonment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-employment-and-skills\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Employment_and_Skills\"><\/span>Employment and Skills<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many open-prison systems provide opportunities for agricultural work, construction, manufacturing, and other forms of employment. Prisoners can develop skills that may help them earn a living after release.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-preservation-of-family-relationships\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Preservation_of_Family_Relationships\"><\/span>Preservation of Family Relationships<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Where family accommodation or regular contact is permitted, prisoners can maintain relationships with spouses, children, and other relatives. This can be an important source of emotional support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-better-preparation-for-release\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Better_Preparation_for_Release\"><\/span>Better Preparation for Release<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A prisoner who moves gradually from a highly controlled environment to supervised freedom may find it easier to adjust to ordinary life after completing the sentence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-human-dignity\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Human_Dignity\"><\/span>Human Dignity<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Open prisons recognize that prisoners remain human beings with the capacity to change. They therefore give practical meaning to the constitutional principle of dignity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-reduced-risk-of-institutionalization\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Reduced_Risk_of_Institutionalization\"><\/span>Reduced Risk of Institutionalization<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Long periods in highly restrictive environments can make adjustment to ordinary society difficult. Open institutions provide a more realistic transition between imprisonment and complete freedom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-the-supreme-court-s-renewed-push\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Supreme_Courts_Renewed_Push\"><\/span>The Supreme Court&#8217;s Renewed Push<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Supreme Court&#8217;s approach to open prisons has developed significantly since <em>Rama Murthy (1996)<\/em>. In <em>Suhas Chakma v. Union of India (2026)<\/em>, the Court again addressed the need to expand and properly utilize open and semi-open correctional institutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The judgment placed renewed emphasis on the constitutional values of equality, dignity, and rehabilitation. It also drew attention to the striking situation in which closed prisons remain overcrowded while some open institutions operate substantially below their capacity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Court&#8217;s approach supports several important principles:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>States should develop time-bound plans for expanding open and semi-open prisons;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Existing open-prison capacity should not be reduced;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Women prisoners should not be excluded through blanket restrictions;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Eligibility should take account of conduct, rehabilitation, and reintegration potential;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Open and semi-open facilities should be developed within the existing prison system where appropriate; and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prison reform should be treated as a constitutional and administrative responsibility rather than merely an optional policy.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The significance of this approach is clear: open prisons should not be treated as a privilege for a small number of prisoners but as an important component of a modern correctional system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-the-special-need-to-include-women\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Special_Need_to_Include_Women\"><\/span>The Special Need to Include Women<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the major challenges is the limited availability of open-prison facilities for women.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The very small number of women accommodated in open prisons shows that the model has not yet developed equally for female prisoners. Blanket exclusion of women is difficult to justify in a reformative system when suitable female prisoners may also demonstrate good conduct and the capacity to live responsibly in less restrictive conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">States should therefore develop gender-sensitive eligibility criteria and appropriate facilities for women, including arrangements that consider family responsibilities, childcare, and security requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-should-under-trial-prisoners-also-be-considered\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Should_Under-Trial_Prisoners_Also_Be_Considered\"><\/span>Should Under-Trial Prisoners Also Be Considered?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another important question concerns under-trial prisoners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A person awaiting trial is legally presumed innocent until proven guilty. Therefore, any proposal involving greater freedom for under-trials must be carefully designed and cannot simply copy the rules applicable to convicted prisoners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nevertheless, suitable low-risk under-trial prisoners may benefit from supervised, non-custodial, or semi-open arrangements where legally permissible. Such alternatives could reduce unnecessary incarceration while protecting public safety and the integrity of the judicial process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-open-prisons-for-undertrial-prisoners-the-jharkhand-model\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Open_Prisons_for_Undertrial_Prisoners_The_Jharkhand_Model\"><\/span>Open Prisons for Undertrial Prisoners: The Jharkhand Model<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Jharkhand model of open prisons for undertrial prisoners represents an innovative approach to reducing unnecessary incarceration while preserving the interests of justice. Undertrial prisoners are persons who have not yet been convicted and are therefore presumed innocent until proven guilty. The model seeks to provide suitable low-risk undertrials with a less restrictive environment, particularly where prolonged detention, minor offenses, bail-related difficulties, or other circumstances make continued confinement in a closed prison unnecessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Instead of exposing such prisoners to the overcrowded and highly restrictive environment of conventional jails, a carefully supervised open or semi-open arrangement can provide greater freedom of movement and access to work and family contact while maintaining reasonable safeguards to ensure their appearance before the court.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Jharkhand approach is important because it demonstrates how prison administration can move from mere custody towards humane and rational detention. Such a model must, however, operate on clear eligibility criteria, individual risk assessment, court supervision where required, and strict conditions to prevent absconding or interference with the judicial process. It can be particularly valuable for undertrials who pose little threat to society and whose continued detention is mainly the result of procedural or socio-economic difficulties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If properly implemented, the model can reduce overcrowding, lower the financial burden on the state, protect the dignity of undertrial prisoners, and strengthen the constitutional principles of personal liberty and fair procedure under Article 21. It also supports the broader reformative philosophy that imprisonment before conviction should be used only when genuinely necessary, rather than becoming a substitute for bail or other less restrictive measures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-open-prisons-and-the-gandhian-idea-of-reform\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Open_Prisons_and_the_Gandhian_Idea_of_Reform\"><\/span>Open Prisons and the Gandhian Idea of Reform<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The philosophy of open prisons has often been compared with the idea of a Gandhian ashram, where discipline is achieved not simply through force but through community living, work, and moral responsibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The objective is not to make imprisonment comfortable for its own sake. The objective is to make imprisonment constructive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A prisoner who works, earns, maintains family relationships, and learns to make responsible decisions is acquiring something that a locked cell alone cannot provide: the practical experience of living responsibly in society.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-the-road-ahead\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Road_Ahead\"><\/span>The Road Ahead<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">India needs to move from a prison system dominated by walls and locks towards a graded correctional system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not every prisoner can be placed in an open institution. Serious offenders who present genuine security risks may require closed or high-security facilities. But prisoners who demonstrate sustained good conduct and genuine reform should have a realistic pathway towards progressively greater freedom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A modern prison system could therefore follow a broad progression:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Closed Prison \u2192 Semi-Open Prison \u2192 Open Prison \u2192 Supervised Release \u2192 Full Reintegration<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Such a system would make imprisonment more purposeful and could help reduce both overcrowding and recidivism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-conclusion-from-walls-to-rehabilitation\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion_From_Walls_to_Rehabilitation\"><\/span>Conclusion: From Walls to Rehabilitation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Open prisons represent a powerful shift in the philosophy of punishment. They replace the idea that security must always depend upon walls with the idea that responsibility can itself become a form of security.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">India already has successful examples, legal recognition, and substantial unused capacity. The challenge now is implementation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The continuing overcrowding of closed prisons alongside underutilized open facilities shows that India has an opportunity to rethink how imprisonment is organized. More open and semi-open institutions should be developed, existing capacity should be used effectively, and suitable prisoners\u2014including women who meet appropriate criteria\u2014should receive genuine opportunities for rehabilitation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The ultimate purpose of imprisonment should not be to create better prisoners. It should be to help create better citizens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An open prison does not simply open a gate; it opens a possibility\u2014the possibility of responsibility, dignity, reform, and a second chance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-related-links yoast-seo-related-links\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/gender-barriers-in-open-prisons-challenges-confronting-women-inmates\/\">Gender Barriers in Open Prisons: Challenges Confronting Women Inmates<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/bail-jurisprudence-india-article-21-legal-aid-undertrial-prisoners\/\">Bail Jurisprudence in India: Article 21, Legal Aid, Undertrial Prisoners &amp; the Constitutional Right to Liberty<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/behind-the-walls-key-issues-facing-indian-prisons-today\/\">Behind the Walls: Key Issues Facing Indian Prisons Today<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/supreme-court-same-day-release-bail-acquittal-article-21-prisoners-rights\/\">Supreme Court Orders Same-Day Release After Bail or Acquittal: Landmark Article 21 Judgment on Prisoners&#8217; Liberty<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/rights-of-undertrial-prisoners-in-india-constitutional-safeguards-landmark-judgments-bail-laws-and-human-rights-analysis\/\">Rights of Undertrial Prisoners in India: Constitutional Safeguards, Landmark Judgments, Bail Laws, and Human Rights Analysis<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Introduction Open prisons represent one of the most progressive ideas in modern prison administration. They are based on the principle of reformative justice\u2014the belief that imprisonment should not merely punish a person for a crime but should also help them change, develop responsibility, and return to society as a law-abiding citizen. Unlike traditional closed prisons,<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":49,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_bbp_topic_count":0,"_bbp_reply_count":0,"_bbp_total_topic_count":0,"_bbp_total_reply_count":0,"_bbp_voice_count":0,"_bbp_anonymous_reply_count":0,"_bbp_topic_count_hidden":0,"_bbp_reply_count_hidden":0,"_bbp_forum_subforum_count":0,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"two_page_speed":[],"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"_joinchat":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[15],"tags":[4798],"class_list":["post-31764","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","category-criminal-law","tag-criminal-law"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v28.4 (Yoast SEO v28.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Open Prisons in India: Freedom with Responsibility and a Second Chance - Legal Service India - Articles<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Explore open prisons in India, prison reform, rehabilitation, Supreme Court directions, undertrial prisoners and the path from custody to reintegration.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Open Prisons in India: Freedom with Responsibility and a Second Chance\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Explore open prisons in India, prison reform, rehabilitation, Supreme Court directions, undertrial prisoners and the path from custody to reintegration.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Legal Service India - Articles\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/legalservicesind\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-09-07T05:47:30+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-09-07T05:51:52+00:00\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Md. Imran Wahab\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@legalserviceind\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@legalserviceind\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Md. Imran Wahab\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"10 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.legalserviceindia.com\\\/Legal-Articles\\\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.legalserviceindia.com\\\/Legal-Articles\\\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Md. 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Imran Wahab\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.legalserviceindia.com\\\/Legal-Articles\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/avatars\\\/49\\\/1777837060-bpfull.jpg\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.legalserviceindia.com\\\/Legal-Articles\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/avatars\\\/49\\\/1777837060-bpfull.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.legalserviceindia.com\\\/Legal-Articles\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/avatars\\\/49\\\/1777837060-bpfull.jpg\",\"caption\":\"Md. Imran Wahab\"},\"description\":\"Md. Imran Wahab, a distinguished 2004-batch Indian Police Service officer, has dedicated over 32 years to public service, holding various senior managerial positions within the West Bengal Police force. His career has spanned diverse roles across different districts, including Kolkata Police, serving as DCP, 5th Battalion, Kolkata Armed Police and DCP (Port Division), for approximately 4 years. He served in Barrackpore Police Commissionerate, holding the positions of DCP (Special Branch) and DCP (Traffic) for over 4 years. He was posted in the districts of Dakshin Dinajpur and Nadia as Additional SP. At the sub-divisional level, he has worked as SDPOs of Gangarampur, Raghunathpur and Kalna sub-divisions of West Bengal. His tenure as Special IG and subsequently as IGP of Correctional Services, West Bengal, for over 4 years, saw him deeply engaged in improving the prison and correctional system. He visited numerous correctional homes across West Bengal, interacting with inmates, both male and female, including children residing with their incarcerated mothers. His outreach extended to correctional homes in Assam, Bihar, and Tripura. This hands-on approach provided him with invaluable insights into the workings of prisons and the complexities of the prisoner psyche. Beyond his operational roles, Md. Imran Wahab possesses a strong academic background, holding B.Sc., M.A., L.L.B., and M.B.A. degrees. He has also completed Post Graduate Diplomas in Human Rights, Project Management, Corporate Management, Computer Application, Public Administration, Medical Law, Disaster Management, Fire Safety &amp; Hazards Management and Psychology. He has attended Indian government sponsored specialized training in police and management matters in SVPNPA, Hyderabad, IIM, Ahmedabad and Singapore. He is the author of the books 'Police Investigation &amp; Allied Matters' and 'Alternative Dispute Resolution: Evolving Trends and Innovations' demonstrating his commitment to knowledge sharing within the law enforcement field. As an observer for the Election Commission of India, he has gained firsthand experience in conducting assembly elections and bye-elections in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Assam, Bihar, and Tripura (twice). This exposure has given him a deep understanding of election management and the Election Commission's operations. He has also served as Chairman and as a member of various recruitment boards for the selection of police personnel in Kolkata Police and West Bengal Police. Md. Imran Wahab's interests extend beyond law enforcement to include law, politics, international affairs, prison management, and business management. He has authored over 1000 articles on these diverse topics, reflecting his intellectual curiosity and desire to contribute to public discourse. He is also a research scholar in law and has contributed articles to the Indian Police Journal, National Crime Record Bureau Journal, SVP National Police Academy Journal, and International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research etc. Currently, he serves as IGP, Provisioning, West Bengal.\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.legalserviceindia.com\\\/Legal-Articles\\\/author\\\/md-imranwahab\\\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Open Prisons in India: Freedom with Responsibility and a Second Chance - Legal Service India - Articles","description":"Explore open prisons in India, prison reform, rehabilitation, Supreme Court directions, undertrial prisoners and the path from custody to reintegration.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Open Prisons in India: Freedom with Responsibility and a Second Chance","og_description":"Explore open prisons in India, prison reform, rehabilitation, Supreme Court directions, undertrial prisoners and the path from custody to reintegration.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/open-prisons-in-india-freedom-with-responsibility-and-a-second-chance\/","og_site_name":"Legal Service India - Articles","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/legalservicesind","article_published_time":"2026-09-07T05:47:30+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-09-07T05:51:52+00:00","author":"Md. 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Imran Wahab","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/avatars\/49\/1777837060-bpfull.jpg","url":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/avatars\/49\/1777837060-bpfull.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/avatars\/49\/1777837060-bpfull.jpg","caption":"Md. Imran Wahab"},"description":"Md. Imran Wahab, a distinguished 2004-batch Indian Police Service officer, has dedicated over 32 years to public service, holding various senior managerial positions within the West Bengal Police force. His career has spanned diverse roles across different districts, including Kolkata Police, serving as DCP, 5th Battalion, Kolkata Armed Police and DCP (Port Division), for approximately 4 years. He served in Barrackpore Police Commissionerate, holding the positions of DCP (Special Branch) and DCP (Traffic) for over 4 years. He was posted in the districts of Dakshin Dinajpur and Nadia as Additional SP. At the sub-divisional level, he has worked as SDPOs of Gangarampur, Raghunathpur and Kalna sub-divisions of West Bengal. His tenure as Special IG and subsequently as IGP of Correctional Services, West Bengal, for over 4 years, saw him deeply engaged in improving the prison and correctional system. He visited numerous correctional homes across West Bengal, interacting with inmates, both male and female, including children residing with their incarcerated mothers. His outreach extended to correctional homes in Assam, Bihar, and Tripura. This hands-on approach provided him with invaluable insights into the workings of prisons and the complexities of the prisoner psyche. Beyond his operational roles, Md. Imran Wahab possesses a strong academic background, holding B.Sc., M.A., L.L.B., and M.B.A. degrees. He has also completed Post Graduate Diplomas in Human Rights, Project Management, Corporate Management, Computer Application, Public Administration, Medical Law, Disaster Management, Fire Safety &amp; Hazards Management and Psychology. He has attended Indian government sponsored specialized training in police and management matters in SVPNPA, Hyderabad, IIM, Ahmedabad and Singapore. He is the author of the books 'Police Investigation &amp; Allied Matters' and 'Alternative Dispute Resolution: Evolving Trends and Innovations' demonstrating his commitment to knowledge sharing within the law enforcement field. As an observer for the Election Commission of India, he has gained firsthand experience in conducting assembly elections and bye-elections in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Assam, Bihar, and Tripura (twice). This exposure has given him a deep understanding of election management and the Election Commission's operations. He has also served as Chairman and as a member of various recruitment boards for the selection of police personnel in Kolkata Police and West Bengal Police. Md. Imran Wahab's interests extend beyond law enforcement to include law, politics, international affairs, prison management, and business management. He has authored over 1000 articles on these diverse topics, reflecting his intellectual curiosity and desire to contribute to public discourse. He is also a research scholar in law and has contributed articles to the Indian Police Journal, National Crime Record Bureau Journal, SVP National Police Academy Journal, and International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research etc. Currently, he serves as IGP, Provisioning, West Bengal.","url":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/author\/md-imranwahab\/"}]}},"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31764","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/49"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=31764"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31764\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":31810,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31764\/revisions\/31810"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=31764"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=31764"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalserviceindia.com\/Legal-Articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=31764"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}