SUNIL BATRA vs DELHI ADMINISTRATION

The Supreme Court held that the torture inflicted on a prisoner, as reported in a habeas corpus proceeding initiated by a letter from another convict, constitutes a violation of Article 32 of the Constitution of India. The Court emphasized the responsibility of prison authorities under the Prisons Act, 1894, particularly Sections 27, 29, and 61, to prevent such abuses and ensure the welfare of inmates. The Court directed the Superintendent to prohibit corporal punishment and mandated the establishment of grievance boxes for prisoners, along with provisions for free legal aid, thereby reinforcing the need for judicial oversight in prison management.