Undertrials detained in jails will now be able to meet their friends, relatives or legal advisors only twice a week. The decision taken by the Delhi government in this matter has been upheld by the High Court. The Court has observed that keeping in view the number of undertrials and inmates, the Delhi Government's decision to limit the number of visits by family members, relatives, friends and legal advisors of prisoners to twice a week in jail is correct. It is not appropriate to replace it.

A division bench of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Subramaniam Prasad said the decision has been taken after careful consideration of facilities available in jails, availability of staff and number of undertrial prisoners.

The court made the observation while disposing of a PIL filed by two advocates challenging Rule 585 of the Delhi Prison Rules, 2018. Rule 585 states that every prisoner shall have reasonable opportunities to meet or communicate with his family members, relatives, friends and legal advisers in order to prepare for appeal, obtain bail or arrange for the management of his property and family affairs. Facilities will be given. 

The petitioners said that restricting the number to twice a week was violative of Article 21 of the Constitution of India. On the other hand, the Delhi government in its reply said that the decision to limit the number of visitors has been taken keeping in view the number of prisoners in the jails of the national capital.