Electronic Tracking for Prisoners

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Electronic tracking devices for prisoners on parole or bail could help reduce overcrowding in Indian jails.

The Supreme Court of India’s Centre for Research and Planning has suggested using electronic tracking devices for prisoners granted parole or furlough, potentially as a pilot program for non-violent offenders. This initiative aims to monitor and restrict movements, aiding in reducing overcrowding in prisons. The Model Prisons and Correctional Services Act, 2023, includes a provision allowing parolees to wear tracking devices, with the possibility of parole revocation if conditions are violated. Odisha was the first state to propose tamper-proof electronic tracking for undertrials, specifically those charged with non-heinous crimes. However, no clear guidelines exist on the use of such technology, raising privacy concerns. Earlier this year, the Court opposed bail conditions requiring continuous location sharing due to privacy risks, but a parliamentary committee had supported using cost-effective tracking methods under specific conditions. With India’s prison occupancy at 131.4% as of December 31, 2022, electronic monitoring could help alleviate jail congestion. Globally, tracking devices are used to prevent offenders from accessing restricted locations and to ensure public safety. Compact, tamper-proof devices could reassure beneficiaries of bail by reducing the risk of violations, thereby avoiding jail re-entry due to fear of compliance failures.