Prison Visit Report
Prison Visit Report
Prison Visit Report
SUBMITTED BY SUBMITTED TO
Amrita Mathur Dr. Sheetal Arora
Semester - I Asst. Professor
MACR Dept. of Criminology
MISS AMRITA MATHUR
SEMESTER — I ST SEMESTER
ENROLMENT NO. —
DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINOLOGY AND POLICE STUDIES
SARDAR PATEL UNIVERSITY OF POLICE SECURITY AND
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
DECLARATION
I declare that the report titled "Criminal Justice System Practical Report-2023"
submitted by me to fulfil the curriculum requirements of the I-Semester of the
Master Degree in Criminology is entirely my original work. I have conducted this
practical under the guidance of Dr. Sheetal Arora, Assistant Professor at the
Department of Criminology and Police Studies, Sardar Patel University of Police,
Security and Criminal Justice, Jodhpur, Rajasthan. I affirm that this report has not
been previously submitted for the purpose of obtaining any degree, diploma,
associateship, or fellowship from any other University or Institution.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I express my heartfelt gratitude and sincere appreciation to Hon'ble
ViceChancellor Alok Tripathi Singh IPS (R) for being a constant source of
inspiration and providing valuable guidance to the students of Applied
Criminology. His unwavering support has been instrumental in our academic
journey. I extend my sincere thanks to Dr. Sheetal Arora, our Course
Coordinator, for her exceptional efforts in organising visits, workshops, and
providing relevant insights. Her encouragement, timely suggestions, and
corrections have been crucial in the successful completion of this report. Her
kind words have always motivated and propelled us forward. I would like to
convey my deep sense of pride and satisfaction as I acknowledge the
unwavering support of the department. Their continuous support in arranging
visits and workshops to enhance our understanding of the criminal justice
perspective has been invaluable. I am grateful to Asst. Professor Dr. Rufus D and
Lecturer Miss Jyoti Rana for their kind support in facilitating our Police Station
visit, offering valuable suggestions, and providing corrections for our
assignments and records. I would also like to express my gratitude to all the
faculty members, staff, and fellow students for their contributions, support, and
cooperation throughout the course. Lastly, I would like to thank my family and
friends for their unwavering encouragement and understanding during this
academic endeavour. I am sincerely grateful to everyone who has contributed to
my growth and learning, and I am privileged to have been a part of such a
nurturing academic environment.
Amrita Mathur
INDEX
S/NO. SUBJECT PAGE NO. REMARKS
1 DECLARATION
2 CERTIFICATE
3 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
5 PURPOSE
6 INTRODUCTION
ORGANISATIONAL
7
STRUCTURE
8 DAY 01-05
OBSERVATIONS AND
9
INFERENCE
10 SUGGESTIONS
OBSERVATIONS AND
12 INFERENCE
OBSERVATIONS AND
14
INFERENCE
The purpose of the visit to Mandore Police Station in Jodhpur, Rajasthan was to gain a
comprehensive understanding of crime and the role of law enforcement agencies in
maintaining law and order. As a student of criminology, it is crucial to have a firsthand
experience and insight into the workings of the police. This visit provided an
opportunity to closely observe and study the operational aspects of the police
department, their procedures, and their efforts in combating crime. By observing the
functioning of Mandore Police Station, we aimed to enhance our knowledge and gain
practical insights into the criminal justice system.
1. Gain Practical Insight: The visit aimed to provide practical exposure to the
operational aspects of law enforcement agencies, allowing students to observe
firsthand the functioning of a police station and understand the day-to-day activities
and challenges faced by law enforcement officials.
2. Understand Law Enforcement Procedures: By witnessing the procedures
followed by the police, such as handling of criminal cases, recording of statements,
filing of FIRs (First Information Reports), and investigation techniques, students
could deepen their understanding of the criminal justice system and its various
stages.
3. Study Crime Prevention Efforts: The visit offered an opportunity to learn about
the proactive measures taken by the police to prevent crime, maintain public safety,
and ensure law and order. This included exploring community policing initiatives,
crime prevention strategies, and the coordination between different departments
involved in maintaining public security.
4. Bridge Theory and Practice: The visit aimed to bridge the gap between theoretical
knowledge gained in the classroom and practical application in real-life scenarios.
By observing the actual workings of a police station, students could relate
theoretical concepts to their practical implementation and develop a more
comprehensive understanding of criminology.
Overall, the visit to Mandore Police Station provided a valuable platform for
criminology students to connect academic knowledge with real-world law enforcement
practices, fostering a holistic understanding of the criminal justice system.
INTRODUCTION
Article 246 of the Indian Constitution designates the police, public order, courts,
prisons, reformatories, borstals, and related institutions as subjects under the State List.
As such, the police fall under the jurisdiction of the state governments, who have
complete control over their organisation and administration. The police play a crucial
role in the Criminal Justice System.
JODHPUR POLICE
Jodhpur, located in the state of Rajasthan, India, is a historic city situated in the
northwest part of the country. It is known for its magnificent forts, palaces, and vibrant
culture. Jodhpur serves as the administrative headquarters of the Jodhpur District and is
home to the Jodhpur Police Department. Jodhpur Police is a law enforcement agency
serving the city of Jodhpur in Rajasthan, India. The Jodhpur Police force consists of
dedicated officers and personnel who work diligently to uphold justice and serve the
community. With its jurisdiction covering Jodhpur city, the police force plays a crucial
role in maintaining peace and harmony in the region.
Organisational structure of Police
Director General of Police DGP
( )
Additional DGP
Deputy IGP
OFFICER’S
RANK
Senior Superintendent of Police
(SSP)
Superintendent of Police SP
( )
Additional SP
Assistant/Deputy SP
Inspector
UPPER
Sub-Inspector SUBORDINATE
RANK
Assistant Sub-Inspector
The head of police organisation is the DIRECTOR GENERAL OF POLICE and he for see all the
working and functioning of police and is answerable to state government. The lowest rank in the
police hierarchy is held by Constable. Inspector General of police is in charge of a zone, which
comprise few ranges. Dy. Inspector General of Police is in charge of a range, which comprise a
charge of sub division in the district. Inspector of police is the in charge of a police station. Sub
Inspector of police is the in charge of a smaller police station and the other officers are the staff of
Division of State
STATE
ZONE
RANGE
DISTRICT
SUB DIVISION
CIRCLE
P.S
With the advent of independence in August 1947, the 563 princely States of
India were gradually integrated into different administrative homogeneous
units. The State of Rajasthan, in its present form came into being in different
stages. The Matsya union comprising Alwar, Bharatpur, Dholpur and
Karauli were the first to be ushered in on March 18, 1948. They were joined a
week later by Banswara, Bundi, Dungarpur, Jhalawar, Kishangarh,
Kushalgarh, Kota, Pratapgarh, Shahpura, Tonk and Udaipur. Exactly a
year later, the four larger States viz. Jaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner and Jaisalmer
also joined in. Together they formed the Greater Rajasthan, which was
inaugurated by Home Minister of India Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel on 31st
March, 1949. Though the process had started immediately after independence,
it was not until 1956 that all the States came together to form the present
Rajasthan. Shri Banerjee started the necessary preliminaries to integrate the
various police forces and promulgated a common police code for the united
state of Rajasthan in the RAJASTHAN POLICE REGULATIONS (RPR) in
1948.
The Rajasthan Police Service was formed in January 1951 and eligible
officers from all over the State were appointed. This marked the beginning of
Rajasthan Police as we know it today. The Rajasthan Police is the law
enforcement agency for the state of Rajasthan in India. The Rajasthan Police
has its headquarters in Jaipur, the state capital. The motto of the force is
ORGANIZATION
Rajasthan is divided into 2 police commissionerate , 7 police ranges which
are further divided into 40 districts which are then divided into 171 police
circles and into 709 police stations and 788 out posts.
2 Police 40 Police
Rajasthan State Commissionerate 7 Police Range
Districts
2 Police Commissionerate
JAIPUR JODHPUR
• Jaipur Range : (5 Police Districts) Jaipur Rural, Sikar, Jhunjhunu, Dausa & Alwar
• Jodhpur Range : (6 Police Districts) Jodhpur Rural, Pali, Jaisalmer, Barmer, af ore, Sirohi
• Kota Range : (5 Police Districts) Kota City, Kota Rural, Jhalawar, Baran, Bundi.
HIERARCHY
The hierarchy of the Rajasthan Police consists of various levels. At the state level,
there is the Director General of Police (DGP) with a 3-star rank, currently held by
Umesh Mishra (IPS) as of 2023. Moving down to the Commissionerates and Ranges,
there is the Inspector General of Police (IGP) with a 2-star rank. At the Police District
level, we have the District Superintendent of Police (SP) and Deputy Superintendent of
Police (DSP). In the Police Circle, there is the Circle Inspector (Cl), and at the Police
Station level, we have the Station House Officer (SHO), Inspector, Sub-Inspector (SI),
and Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI). Finally, at the Out-Posts, we have the Head
Constable and Constables.
1. What is the jurisdiction and coverage area of Mandore Police Station in Jodhpur?
2. How does Mandore Police Station handle the unique challenges and crime patterns
specific to its jurisdiction?
3. Are there any notable historical or cultural aspects of Mandore that influence
policing strategies or community engagement efforts?
4. Can I learn about the organisational structure of Mandore Police Station and the
roles of different personnel, such as the Station House Officer (SHO) or
Investigating Officers (IOs)?
5. How does Mandore Police Station collaborate with other law enforcement agencies,
such as the district police or specialised units, to address complex or high-profile
cases?
Once we reached the police station, we patiently waited in the reception area to obtain
permission from the Station House Officer (SHO) as required by our university.
However, due to the officers' busy schedule, there was a slight delay in obtaining the
necessary approval.
At precisely 11:20 am, one of the diligent constables warmly welcomed us in the
reception area. Their presence marked the beginning of our enlightening journey as
they graciously explained the intricate hierarchy of the police administration, shed light
on the functioning of the reception room, and provided essential knowledge about
other important aspects of the administration.
Notably, sensitive cases involving women were handled with utmost care, reflecting a
commitment to gender-sensitive policing practices. Visiting the station house officer's
room, we received a briefing on the increasing number of criminal cases and the
meticulous process of filing charge-sheets.
RECEPTION
Within the confines of Mandore Police Station, a group of dedicated constables shared
insights into their rotational duties at the reception room. Their primary responsibility
was to manage four crucial registers that played a pivotal role in maintaining essential
records and facilitating efficient processes within the station.
The first among the four registers was the Visitor Register, a repository of information
capturing the details of individuals who visited the police station. Whether seeking
assistance, filing complaints, or providing valuable information, every visitor's name,
contact information, and purpose of the visit were diligently recorded. This register
served as a vital reference point for future communication and follow-up actions.
The Suggestion Booklet, another integral component of the reception room, provided
a platform for community members to voice their opinions, suggestions, and
grievances. Visitors were encouraged to pen down their thoughts, concerns, or
recommendations, allowing them to actively participate in the continuous improvement
of the services provided by the police station. This booklet served as a valuable
feedback mechanism, helping the police to better understand community needs and
concerns.
The Duty Register, the fourth register diligently maintained in the reception room,
documented the rotation of constables responsible for reception duties. This register
ensured a seamless transition of responsibilities among the constables, guaranteeing
that a trained and knowledgeable individual was always present to assist visitors. It
served as an essential scheduling tool, allowing for efficient allocation of resources and
ensuring that reception services were consistently available.
4. Handcuffs : Metal rings that attach to wrists to keep criminals (or the accused)
from escaping.
5. Patrol : Observe and protect and area.
6. Radar : Radio wave transmission that helps police Track cars and map crime
scenes.
DAY 02 (MANDORE POLICE STATION)
The second day, we arrived at the police station at 11:30 am and spoke with the SHO
(Station House Officer) to learn about filing crime reports and accessing records. The
SHO kindly allowed us to visit the crime record room on the following day. When we
arrived at 1:30 pm, two constable officers were present. One of them took the time to
explain their duties and the procedure for filing crime reports. They also shared
valuable information about how crime record files are created and maintained.
OVERVIEW
The police station had several police vehicles parked outside, and the premises were
equipped with CCTV cameras for monitoring. The staff included 2 Sub-Inspectors, 3
Assistant Sub-Inspectors, 3 female constables, and 10 constables, ensuring a strong
presence and support for maintaining law and order. Inside the station, there were
boxes containing exam papers from various government schools, indicating the
responsibility of safeguarding important documents. During our visit, we were given
comprehensive explanations about each department, providing us with a clear
understanding of their functions and roles. We also discovered a child-friendly room
called "Baal Mitra Kaksh," where children were treated with kindness, care, and a
friendly atmosphere, emphasizing the police station's commitment to ensuring a safe
and supportive environment for young individuals. Additionally, we noticed that the
police station had confiscated vehicles, indicating their efforts in addressing criminal
activities and enforcing the law.
1. Reception: On the left hand, as we entered the main gate inside the station, there
was a reception which consisted of a big wooden table. It was headed by a male
constable. It is a place where the complaint is directed to the respective duty
officer. No FIR is lodged in this section but only the entries are done. In front of
reception there are motor vehicles which are seized by the police station.
2. Lock ups: The police station had separate male and female lock-ups, but only the
male lock-up had sanitation facilities. Unfortunately, there were no sanitation
facilities available in the female lock-up. To prevent any harm or attempts at
selfharm, the lock-ups were designed without switchboards, fans, nails, or sharp
edges
that could be used for such purposes. During our visit, the lock-ups were empty,
indicating that no individuals were being held at that time.
3. Display Board: In the police station, there was a display board that showcased
pictures of criminals along with their details. Additionally, there was a notice board
displaying directions and guidelines for the officers. A map was also displayed,
illustrating the jurisdiction covered by the police station.
4. Malkhana: The police malkhana, which is an essential part of the police station,
serves as a storage room for case-related items and evidence. A dedicated Moharrer
Head Constable maintains a proper register for this purpose. The items stored in
the malkhana are collected from crime scenes and kept for further investigation
and trial. Some of these items are sent to forensic labs for testing. The malkhana
consists of two sections: a single lock room for storing regular property and a
double lock room for securely housing valuable and expensive items, as well as
evidence related to serious crimes that require additional investigation.
5. Investigation Room: The police station has a designated room where individuals,
whether they are accused or witnesses, can be temporarily detained for questioning
by the investigation officer. This room serves as a space for conducting inquiries
and gathering information during investigations.
6. Head Mohrir: The Head Mohrir holds a crucial role in overseeing the operations
of the police station. The police station is equipped with CCTNS (Crime and
Criminal Tracking Networking System). This system allows for the online
management of criminal records and crime reports, providing easy access and
ensuring transparency in the work conducted by the police station.
7. Record Room: The record room serves as a central repository for maintaining
various files and documents. It contains records of different offenses, along with
their details, PCR (Public Call Response) call records, bail registers, FIR (First
Information Report) records, and other relevant information. Each type of record is
assigned a specific number for easy identification and organization. For example,
conviction records are maintained in register number 5, while criminal records are
kept in register number 9.
8. Record Room (other files): The record room houses various registers, each
dedicated to specific types of records. These include the MPR Register (Missing
Person Report), Crime Register, Door to Door register, VCNB (Village Crime
Number Book), Index Register, IO Report (Investigating Officer), and Beat Book.
Each register contains relevant information and documentation pertaining to its
respective category.
9. Computer Room: Since 2007, FIRs (First Information Reports) have been
recorded in a computerised format. All the data of the police station is saved on a
dedicated website. This website serves as the personal website for the police
department, where they upload daily reports of incidents that occur within the
jurisdiction. The computer room in the police station is equipped with seven
working computers to facilitate these digital processes.
10. Barracks: The police station provides separate barracks for police officials and
constables. There are a total of ten barracks, with separate sections for male and
female constables. The barracks are designed to ensure comfortable living
conditions for the personnel, offering facilities such as mess areas for meals and
hygienic sanitation facilities.
On the second day, a constable living in the village discovered a decapitated and
dismembered body on a hill. The area was captured on CCTV, but the locals opposed
moving the body to the morgue. After a meeting, permission was granted for a
postmortem, which faced initial opposition. The examination confirmed that the victim
had been sexually assaulted and murdered.
Multiple investigative teams were formed to collect clues and cross-check information.
Approximately 40-50 individuals living near the victim's house, those traveling to and
from the village, and those traveling by bus were thoroughly investigated. The nearby
train station was also closely surveyed. The investigation faced challenges as the
victim belonged to the SC/ST community, and the investigators had been working
without food for 24 hours.
BREAKTHROUGH AND ARREST
During the course of the investigation, the village headman came to the police station
and reported that two young men had approached him from the hills, offering to show
him a dead body. The police promptly apprehended the men and verified their identity
through a window. Following a medical examination, the suspects confessed to their
involvement in the crime.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
As per Indian law, the police filed a chargesheet against the perpetrators under various
sections, including POCSO, gang rape, and SC/ST. However, the defense counsel
argued that the SC/ST section did not apply as the culprits were not aware of the
victim's caste. All the evidence was submitted to the judge, who will decide the
appropriate punishment for the accused.
CONCLUSION
The successful resolution of this case was a result of the diligent efforts of the police,
the involvement of specialised teams such as dog search units and the Forensic Science
Laboratory (FSL), and the cooperation of the local community. It highlights the
importance of effective investigation techniques, dedicated law enforcement personnel,
and the need for public participation in ensuring justice and the safety of children.
(Note: The specific statistics from NCRB data were not provided in the original request
and thus have not been included in the case study.)
PERSONAL OBSERVATION
As a criminology student, this case study showcases the horrifying nature of a crime
involving the kidnapping, sexual assault, and murder of a young girl. The incident
occurred in a remote village, and despite initial challenges, the police worked
diligently to investigate the case.
The involvement of specialised teams, such as dog search units and the Forensic
Science Laboratory, played a crucial role in gathering evidence. The cooperation of the
local community also contributed to the successful resolution of the case. This case
emphasises the significance of effective investigation techniques and dedicated law
enforcement personnel. It also highlights the importance of public participation in
ensuring justice and the safety of children.
It is disheartening to learn about such heinous crimes, and it reinforces the need for
continuous efforts to prevent and address such acts of violence in our society.
DAY 04 (MANDORE POLICE STATION)
On the last day of our training, the Station House Officer (SHO) discussed the
observations we made at the police station. We had the opportunity to ask questions,
and the SHO assured us that he would provide answers. We inquired about the
fundamental principles that police officers should follow while working at the station.
One important principle is to maintain accurate and complete records of all activities.
This includes documenting the officers' histories, detailing what they have done or not
done at the station. For example, if an officer plans to travel to Nepal, they should
review their history and make necessary arrangements. They should seek advice from
someone who has been there before and learn from their experiences.
Now, let's talk about government job verification for individuals. During the
verification process, officials visit the individual's address to confirm the provided
information and check for any past legal cases. In the past, this process used to take
several weeks and required filling out a verification form. However, with the
introduction of digitalisation, the process can now be completed online through a
platform called "Mee-Seva" and typically takes only one to two weeks. Digitalisation
has significantly expedited the process, which used to involve physically passing files
from one desk to another. While digitalisation has brought benefits, there are still
challenges that arise from the digital revolution.
To prevent and manage cybercrime, we must be cautious and avoid falling victim to
fraudulent schemes. For example, if you receive a message claiming that you have won
a prize or gift and asking for personal information, it could be a cybercrime attempt.
Even simply clicking on a suspicious link without entering any details can lead to
unauthorised access to your phone number and bank account, enabling fraudsters to
transfer funds. Cyber fraud is often perpetrated by individuals from countries with
weaker economies, like Nigeria.
Corruption is prevalent when people seek to expedite their work by paying bribes for
faster service. However, digitalisation has significantly reduced corruption. Law
enforcement agencies now closely monitor digital transactions, leading to a decrease in
corruption compared to earlier times.
During our evening patrol, we visited a checkpoint near the police station, known as
"NAKA-1" among the officers. This checkpoint is manned by two officers 24/7 and
has three barricades to control speeding and stop vehicles. NAKA-1 implements
multiple layers of traffic management. The first layer only allows motorcycles to pass
through by closing the barricades. The second layer, located farther from the divider,
permits threewheelers, four-wheelers, buses, and lorries. However, large containers and
lorries are only allowed to move between 11:00 pm and 5:00 am. If an overweight load
is detected in a lorry, it is stopped, and the necessary papers and procedures are
checked. The control room communicates with NAKA-1 using a fully automatic
walkie-talkie. They share traffic updates, information about the control room, and the
name of the police station in the area. When the control room communicates with
"NAKA-1," the officers respond by saying, "This is NAKA-1.
CONCLUSION
During the four-day visit to Mandore Police Station, several noteworthy observations
were made. The police station demonstrated a strong commitment to maintaining law
and order in the community, with officers exhibiting professionalism and dedication to
their duties. The infrastructure and facilities at the station were well-maintained,
providing a conducive environment for effective policing. Additionally, the station had
implemented various technological advancements to enhance their operational
efficiency, such as a modernised record-keeping system and digital communication
tools. Moreover, the community engagement initiatives undertaken by the police
station were commendable, fostering positive relationships with the local residents and
promoting a sense of safety and security. Overall, the visit to Mandore Police Station
showcased a well-organized and proactive approach to policing, contributing to a safer
and harmonious environment for the community.
The High Court of Rajasthan is the highest judicial authority in the state of Rajasthan,
India. Established on June 21, 1949, under the Rajasthan High Court Ordinance, 1949,
it is located in Jodhpur and holds jurisdiction over the entire state. The court consists of
50 judges, including the Chief Justice.
The primary function of the High Court of Rajasthan is to hear appeals and revisions
from the subordinate courts within the state. It possesses appellate jurisdiction,
allowing it to review decisions made by district courts and other lower courts.
Additionally, the court has original jurisdiction in specific matters such as writ
petitions, company law cases, and disputes between the state and central government.
One of the significant powers of the High Court of Rajasthan is the ability to issue
writs like habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition, quo warranto, and certiorari. These
writs enable the court to protect individual rights and ensure the lawful functioning of
government bodies.
The High Court of Rajasthan is renowned for its landmark judgments in various areas
of law, including constitutional law, criminal law, and civil law. Its decisions have
shaped legal precedents and have a significant impact on the legal system of the state.
Currently, the court has 32 serving judges, including three women judges. It operates
with 36 courtrooms equipped with modern facilities and technology to facilitate swift
and efficient dispensation of justice. Overall, the High Court of Rajasthan plays a
crucial role in upholding the rule of law and safeguarding the rights of individuals
within the state. It's dedicated judges and advanced infrastructure contribute to the
effective functioning of the judiciary, ensuring access to justice for the people of
Rajasthan.
OBJECTIVES
The objectives of visiting the Rajasthan High Court in Jodhpur as an MSC
Criminology student are as follows:
1. Gain Insight into the Judicial System: The primary objective of the visit is to
obtain a first-hand understanding of the functioning of the Rajasthan High Court
and its role within the judicial system of the state. This includes observing
courtroom proceedings, learning about the hierarchy of courts, and comprehending
the structure and administration of the high court.
2. Study Legal Procedures and Processes: The visit aims to familiarize oneself with
the legal procedures and processes followed in the high court. This includes
observing how cases are filed, heard, and decided, as well as understanding the role
of judges, lawyers, and other stakeholders in the court proceedings.
3. Examine Criminal Justice System: As an MSC Criminology student, one
objective is to analyze the interaction between the high court and the criminal
justice system. This involves studying the appellate jurisdiction of the high court in
criminal cases, understanding the process of filing appeals and revisions, and
exploring the role of the high court in ensuring fair trial and justice.
4. Explore Landmark Judgments: The visit seeks to explore and analyze landmark
judgments delivered by the Rajasthan High Court, particularly those pertaining to
criminology, criminal law, and human rights. By studying these judgments, students
can gain insights into the interpretation of law, legal principles, and the evolving
nature of criminal justice in the state.
5. Understand Legal Research and Writing: Another objective is to observe and
understand the legal research and writing practices followed by the high court
judges. This includes studying how legal arguments are presented, analyzing the use
of precedents, and understanding the process of drafting judgments.
6. Enhance Practical Knowledge: The visit aims to provide practical exposure and
enhance the practical knowledge of criminology concepts learned in the academic
curriculum. By witnessing the actual functioning of the high court, students can
connect theoretical concepts with real-world application, deepening their
understanding of the subject.
Overall, the visit to the Rajasthan High Court as an MSC Criminology student aims to
provide a comprehensive understanding of the judicial system, legal procedures,
criminal justice system, landmark judgments, legal research, and practical aspects of
criminology.
PRIMARY OBSERVATION
The Rajasthan High Court encompasses a variety of benches and courts to handle
different types of cases efficiently. These include the Single Judge Bench, which is
presided over by a single judge assigned to hear and decide cases individually. The
Division Bench consists of two judges who collaborate to hear cases jointly or
separately, pooling their perspectives to deliver a unified judgment. In cases that
involve intricate legal and constitutional matters, a Full Bench, comprising three or
more judges, is formed to ensure comprehensive deliberation and thoughtful decision-
making.
For criminal cases, the Rajasthan High Court has dedicated Criminal Courts such as
the Sessions Court, Special Courts, and Fast Track Courts. These courts handle a range
of criminal offenses, including murder, theft, and robbery. On the other hand, civil
disputes find resolution in the Civil Courts, which encompass the District Courts,
Small Causes Courts, and Revenue Courts. These courts are responsible for addressing
conflicts related to property, contracts, and other civil matters.
Moreover, the Rajasthan High Court boasts specialized courts designed to cater to
specific areas of law. These specialized courts include the Family Court, Commercial
Court, Labor Court, and Motor Accident Claims Tribunal, among others. Each of these
courts focuses on cases that fall within their respective domains, ensuring specialized
attention and expertise in their respective fields.
By offering a diverse range of benches and courts, the Rajasthan High Court is
wellequipped to handle the varied legal needs of the state. This comprehensive system
ensures that cases are heard, adjudicated, and resolved in adherence to the relevant
laws and procedures, fostering an efficient and effective judicial process.
Case Number and Item Number
In court proceedings, the item numbers and case numbers are used to track and identify
specific cases. The alphabets used to indicate item numbers may vary across different
courts. Generally, "D" is used to denote "Regular Hearing" or "Daily Hearing," while
"S" represents "Special Hearing" or "Supplementary Hearing.”
"D" items refer to cases that are scheduled for regular hearings, typically on a daily or
weekly basis. These cases are part of the routine court schedule and are not subject to
any specific conditions or restrictions.
On the other hand, "S" items are reserved for cases that require special or
supplementary hearings. These cases may be assigned to a particular judge or bench,
involve urgent matters, or be scheduled for hearings outside the usual court hours.
In addition to "D" and "S," High Courts may employ other letters or symbols to denote
different types of cases or matters. For instance, "W" may represent "Writ Petition,"
"C" may indicate "Civil Matter," "Crl" may stand for "Criminal Matter," "CRL" may
denote criminal cases, "WP" may signify writ petitions, and "CA" may represent civil
appeals. These letters are typically followed by a sequential number assigned to the
specific case.
Furthermore, each courtroom within the court premises is assigned a unique court
number. This number indicates the specific courtroom where a particular case is
scheduled to be heard.
By utilizing item numbers, case numbers, and court numbers, the courts efficiently
organize and manage the proceedings, ensuring proper tracking and identification of
cases throughout the judicial process.
Information display boards outside courtrooms display case details, keeping litigants
informed about the progress of their cases. A case management system helps track the
entire process from filing to disposal, improving efficiency and ensuring timely
hearings.
Additionally, the High Court has a website and mobile application providing
information on court procedures, case status, and judgments, promoting transparency
and allowing litigants to access their case information anytime, anywhere. These
technological advancements enhance the functioning of the High Court and benefit all
involved parties.
PERSONAL OBSERVATION
On April 17, 2023, our group visited the Rajasthan High Court. We started our journey
from the university at 7:30 am and arrived at the high court at around 8:40 am. As we
entered the high court premises, I was amazed by the impressive structure, peaceful
environment, and lush greenery surrounding us.
At 9:00 am, accompanied by Navdeep sir, a guest lecturer and advocate specializing in
Criminal Law Procedure, we entered the high court. He guided us through the court
complex, explaining the different aspects such as the number of judges, courts, and
chambers. Inside the high court, there were 400 chambers and a total of 22 courts,
including single bench and double bench courts dedicated to criminal cases. Among
the courts, there were 18 single benches (6 courts in three different directions) and 4
double benches. The double benches were courts 1 to 4, while courts 5 to 22 were
single benches. I noticed that the high court effectively utilized technology for various
purposes such as video conferencing, e-filing, information display, and case
management systems. Inside the courtrooms, the proceedings were conducted with
utmost silence and discipline. The arguments and discussions took place through
microphones, even by the judges. The arguments proceeded smoothly without any
disruptions. In single bench courts, there was only one judge, whereas in double bench
courts, two judges presided.
On both sides of the courtroom, there were respondents and petitioners, and computers
were present in every court. Numerous files were neatly arranged, each court having a
stack of files. The Chief Justice of the high court had 36 staff members at their
residence and 70 members in the court, including stenographers, personal assistants,
and computer assistants.
During my observation, I came across a senior clerk who had been working in the high
court for nearly 25 years. He was respected and given a higher position within the
court. The high court had well-defined areas such as "The Court of Chief Justice,"
"Court Directions," "Office of Registrar - Principal Secretary to Honourable Chief
Justice," "Facilities," and "Dome Area." The high court also had an impressive E-
library and a cafeteria. After capturing photographs and gaining new insights, we
began our return journey after 3:00 pm. Although I had limited knowledge about the
internal administration of the high court before, this visit provided me with valuable
understanding. The experience of visiting the high court was truly enlightening and
unpredictable.
INTRODUCTION
An open prison is a correctional facility that offers a less restrictive form of
incarceration than traditional prisons. It allows qualified prisoners to reside and work
outside the prison during the day, while they return to the prison at night. The main
goal of open prisons is to facilitate the rehabilitation and reintegration of prisoners into
society. Inmates in open prisons have access to vocational training, education, and
counseling services, and are expected to contribute to society through work such as
farming, manufacturing, or community service. Open prisons are typically located in
rural areas and are constructed with the help of the prisoners themselves, giving them a
sense of purpose and pride in their work. While inmates in open prisons have more
freedom and responsibility than in traditional prisons, they are still closely monitored
by security personnel and must adhere to certain rules and regulations.
As of March 2021, there were 62 open prisons across India, with the number varying
from state to state. The Open-Air Jail in Mysore, Karnataka, is India's oldest open
prison, established in 1915. It is known for its agricultural activities and has served as a
model for other open prisons in the country. Some states with a significant number of
open prisons include Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, and Madhya
Pradesh. In Rajasthan, there are several open prisons located in different cities such as
Bikaner, Barmer, Jaipur (Sanganer area), Phalodi, Jodhpur, and Bhilwara.
INMATES
Open Jail Jodhpur can accommodate around 600 inmates. The inmates at this open
prison are generally low-risk offenders with sentences of less than seven years. Most of
them are engaged in agricultural and horticultural activities on the prison's farm, which
produces crops like wheat, mustard, and bajra. The open jail provides various
rehabilitation programs, including vocational training, education, and counseling
services. Vocational training programs cover areas such as handicrafts, tailoring, and
computer education. The prison also collaborates with local industries and
organizations to secure job placements for inmates upon their release.
OBJECTIVES
The primary objectives of the open prison system are to aid in the rehabilitation and
reintegration of prisoners into society and to alleviate the burden on the prison system.
Open Jail Jodhpur achieves these objectives through educational and training
programs, vocational training, and agricultural work.
The prison places great emphasis on familial support and encourages visits from
inmates' family members. It primarily admits low-risk inmates who have demonstrated
good conduct and are nearing the completion of their sentence. Non-violent offenders
are typically the ones accommodated in open prisons.
2. Model Prison Manual: The Model Prison Manual provides directives for prison
management and administration.
3. Rajasthan Prison Rules, 1951: These rules govern the supervision and
administration of prisons in Rajasthan.
4. Open Jail Guidelines: These guidelines provide detailed instructions on the
management and operation of open prisons.
5. Rajasthan Open Jail Rules, 2018: These rules govern the management and
administration of open jails in Rajasthan. The open jail follows specific procedures
and protocols for inmate admission, classification, and release to ensure equitable
treatment and effective management of the open prison system.
Prisoners
31-
012023 35 34 34 0 0 0 97.14
Open
prison 28-
Mandore, 022023 35 32 32 0 0 0 91.43
Jodhpur
31-
032023 35 31 31 0 0 0 88.57
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