Raising the bar for behind bars

The state has a fundamental obligation to protect the human rights of its citizens, especially those deprived of liberty, according to a 2012 report by then-Inspector of Prisons Daniel Khan. This responsibility is particularly acute during a state of emergency, where individuals can be detained without charge.

Despite this, the appalling state of the nation's prisons, a long-standing issue, only gains public attention during riots or deaths, often without consequences for officials. The recent hospitalization of Christopher Samaroo, father of Joshua Samaroo who died in police confrontation, after falling ill in custody, has raised questions about the necessity of his detention following a radio comment.

Inhumane prison conditions have resurfaced in public discourse due to the recent incarceration of prominent individuals with the means to pursue legal action. A 2020 survey revealed that 59% of prisoners depend on family for basic necessities like toilet paper and soap, with over a third receiving none. Over 70% rely on relatives for sheets and clothes, and over 80% for towels and shoes, highlighting decades of inadequate toilet facilities.

Further analysis shows 97% of inmates come from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, with only 0.3% from upper classes. This disparity fuels public indifference, with many believing "jail is not a hotel." The article argues that while poverty may drive crime, the low incarceration rate among the wealthy suggests either a moral failing or that crime is solely attributed to external factors for the poor, a position deemed incoherent.

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The State is obligated to protect the human rights of its citizens, and particularly those who it deprives of their liberty, the right of life being the most fundamental human right.