APCrRPCO Section 272 : Dress of Convicts

Explanation using Example

Example 1: Convict Appearing as a Witness

Introduction: Ravi, a convict serving a sentence for theft, is summoned to appear in court as a witness in an unrelated civil case. The court is located in Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh.

Application: According to Section 272 of The Andhra Pradesh Criminal Rules Of Practice And Circular Orders, 1990, Ravi must wear ordinary private clothing when appearing in court. His neck-ticket and ankle-rings, which identify him as a convict, must be removed before he enters the courtroom.

Outcome: Compliance with this provision ensures that Ravi is treated with dignity and does not face prejudice due to his convict status. If the authorities fail to comply, it could lead to a mistrial or an appeal based on unfair treatment.

Conclusion: This rule helps maintain the integrity of the judicial process by ensuring that convicts appearing in court are not stigmatized, thereby upholding the principle of fair treatment.

Example 2: Convict as an Accused in a New Case

Introduction: Sita, currently serving a sentence for fraud, is accused in a new case involving embezzlement. She is required to attend a hearing at the Vijayawada District Court.

Application: As per Section 272, Sita must appear in court wearing ordinary private clothing, and her neck-ticket and ankle-rings should be removed. This ensures she is not visually identified as a convict, which could influence the proceedings.

Outcome: By adhering to this rule, the court ensures that Sita receives a fair trial without bias. Non-compliance could result in legal challenges, including claims of prejudice or bias, potentially affecting the trial's outcome.

Conclusion: The provision safeguards the rights of individuals to a fair trial by preventing visual bias, thus reinforcing the principle of justice.

Example 3: Procedural Challenges in Compliance

Introduction: A group of convicts is transported to a court in Visakhapatnam for various hearings. Due to logistical issues, the prison authorities face challenges in providing ordinary clothing for all convicts.

Application: Section 272 mandates that all convicts must wear ordinary private clothing in court. The authorities must ensure compliance despite logistical hurdles.

Outcome: Failure to comply could lead to procedural delays or claims of unfair treatment. The court may issue directives to ensure compliance, emphasizing the importance of logistical planning.

Conclusion: This scenario highlights the need for efficient coordination between prison authorities and the court to uphold the legal rights of convicts.

Example 4: Special Circumstances - Convict with Disabilities

Introduction: Ramesh, a convict with a physical disability, is required to appear in court. He uses specialized clothing for medical reasons.

Application: While Section 272 requires ordinary clothing, accommodations must be made for Ramesh's medical needs, ensuring his clothing does not identify him as a convict.

Outcome: The court must balance compliance with the provision and Ramesh's medical requirements, ensuring he is treated fairly and with dignity.

Conclusion: This example illustrates the need for flexibility in applying legal provisions to accommodate special needs, ensuring equal access to justice.