1. When a prisoner makes out a sufficient case, parole cannot be denied to such prisoner because it becomes a matter of his/her right. 

2. State Governments have their own Prisoners Release on Parole Rules.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a. 1 Only

b. 2 Only

c. Both 1 and 2 

d. Neither 1 nor 2 

 Answer- b

Explanation:

Prisons and persons detained therein being state subjects, state governments have enacted rules for premature release of prisoners based on their good conduct and for grant of parole or furlough etc.

The provision of Parole is a privilege/concession but not a right of any convicted prisoner which is subjected to cancellation in certain specified circumstances. It is allowed to select prisoners on the basis of well defined norms of eligibility and propriety in order to enable them to maintain regular and harmonious relationship with their family and to develop their self-confidence, constructive hope and active interest in life by removing evil effects of their prison life. 

Hence, statement 1 is incorrect.

The term “Parole” is not defined in the Prisons Act, 1894. However, under Section 59, this Act empowers the State Government to make rules consistent with this Act.  Accordingly, the Prison Manuals of the States provides Parole as one of the progressive measures of correctional services.

The State Government/ the Director/ Inspector General of Prisons reserves the right to debar or withdraw any prisoner or category of prisoners from this privilege.

Hence, statement 2 is correct.

Read: Previous Year UPSC Polity Questions (PYQs) With Explanation 2021