Life of an accused inside a prison in India

Because sometimes, even innocence isn’t enough to protect you.

Ever wondered what it really feels like to be inside a jail—not as a convict, but as someone simply accused of a crime?

If not, you should. Because the life of an undertrial prisoner in India can often be worse than someone who’s actually been convicted.

That’s not a bold statement—it’s a fact backed by real data.

By the end of 2014, more than 39,000 undertrial prisoners had been waiting for their court hearings for over 2–3 years.

Not convicted. Just waiting.

Today, over 280,000 people—nearly two-thirds of India’s total prison population—are undertrials. That’s two out of every three people behind bars who haven’t even been proven guilty yet.

Being Accused Can Feel Like a Life Sentence

Let that sink in.

If you’re accused of a crime—just accused—you could end up spending months or even years in jail, stuck in a broken system that moves at a glacial pace. And while you’re there, you’re not just “waiting” in a corner. You’re surviving abuse, fear, humiliation, and endless anxiety about what comes next.

Undertrial prisoners often suffer mental and physical abuse, not just from the system, but sometimes from other inmates too. Gangs inside jails take control—stealing your money, your food, your clothes, even your identity.

Imagine being in a cell with people convicted of murder, assault, or drug trafficking—while you wait for someone to even listen to your side of the story.

What Daily Life Looks Like

Undertrials follow a routine that is both punishing and dehumanising. You sleep in a cramped ward with 40–100 others. You’re unlocked at sunrise, given a little time to freshen up and eat. After that, you’re locked in again—only released briefly for lunch, dinner, and maybe an hour of phone calls or exercise.

In contrast, convicts—people actually proven guilty—often have more freedom. They take part in work programs like cooking, cleaning, or making goods. They get gym time, cultural activities, and more flexibility inside the prison. Undertrials? They get locked up again after just a few hours of air.

The Psychological Toll

With no trial in sight, the days blend into each other.

Depression and hopelessness become part of your daily emotional diet. You start doubting yourself.

You stop expecting anything.

Many undertrials suffer from HIV, TB, epilepsy, untreated wounds, and other illnesses. Medical facilities are poor. Hygiene is worse. And dignity? Almost non-existent.

If you happen to be innocent—which many undertrials are—this can break your spirit completely.

The Aftermath: Life Post-Prison

Even if you’re eventually proven innocent, your life is never the same.

People don’t see the “acquittal”—they see the jail time.

You struggle to get a job. Landlords won’t rent you a house. Your name carries a shadow it may never fully shake.

Your family suffers too—emotionally, socially, and financially. Some lose their homes, businesses, or even relationships during the long wait for justice.

Why Does This Happen?

India’s judicial system is painfully slow. There are thousands of cases pending for more than 3 years. In many jails, overcrowding is double the capacity. Authorities often misuse power, ignore rights, and treat undertrials as guilty until proven innocent.

Yes, we all want justice. Yes, criminals must be punished.

But justice isn’t just about punishment—it’s about fairness. And we’re failing at that.

So, What Needs to Change?

• Faster trials and better case tracking

• Rehabilitation programs for undertrials

• Accountability for police and prison authorities

• More humane conditions in jails

• And most importantly, a shift in public perception

Not every person in jail is a criminal.

Not every accused is guilty.

But every human deserves dignity.

Until then, remember—being accused in India can feel worse than being guilty.

And that’s something that needs to change.

Image source: Google