Explained | The debate around conjugal visits for prisoners

This article explores the diverse judicial perspectives and High Court rulings on the conjugal rights of prisoners and delves into the details of the Punjab model. Punjab advances prisoners' rights by permitting conjugal visits, aiming to enhance familial ties and encourage good conduct. Conjugal visits, considered a fundamental right, are debated for their positive impact on prisoners' psychological health, marital bonds, and reduction of sexual violence in prisons. Punjab's model treats conjugal visits as a privilege, allowing two hours every two months, contingent on proof of marriage and health certifications. However, high-risk prisoners, terrorists, and those with certain medical conditions are excluded from this initiative.