Union government issues advisory highlighting risks of extremist indoctrination in jails across India
Amid rising concerns over radicalisation within India’s prison system, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has called on state and union territory administrations to take urgent steps to counter the spread of extremist ideologies among inmates. In a formal advisory issued to all Home Secretaries, the Centre warned that radicalisation behind bars poses a critical threat to public order and internal security.
According to the advisory, the prison environment — characterised by social isolation, rigid group dynamics and limited oversight — can often become fertile ground for extremist narratives. Vulnerable inmates, especially those with feelings of alienation or a tendency towards anti-social behaviour, are at heightened risk of indoctrination, the MHA said.
“In some cases, radicalised inmates may engage in acts of violence or orchestrate attacks against prison staff, fellow inmates, or even external targets,” the advisory noted. “It is therefore important to address the issue of radicalisation in prisons for reducing the risks of violent extremism, fostering rehabilitation, ensuring national security, and supporting successful reintegration of prisoners into society.”
Citing frameworks such as the *Model Prison Manual, 2016* and the more recent *Model Prisons and Correctional Services Act, 2023*, the government underscored the importance of classifying high-risk prisoners and housing them separately. These model guidelines recommend the establishment of High Security Prisons or special enclosures to prevent extremist inmates from influencing others in the general prison population.
Reiterating previous advisories, the MHA urged prison authorities to maintain strict segregation, conduct routine surveillance and offer counselling to hardcore offenders. States have been advised to carry out regular risk assessments — both at the time of incarceration and at scheduled intervals during custody — to identify inmates susceptible to radical ideologies or involved in spreading them.
The ministry also proposed that states consider building independent High Security Prison Complexes within their jurisdictions for housing hardened or radicalised prisoners, including those with links to terrorism. These facilities should be equipped with advanced surveillance systems and coordinated intelligence mechanisms to detect and disrupt radical networks.
In addition to security protocols, the Centre has encouraged reform-oriented interventions such as de-radicalisation programmes, skill-building workshops, and initiatives that promote continued family contact. These efforts, the MHA suggested, would contribute to prisoners’ emotional wellbeing and aid in their eventual reintegration into society.
