An Examining the Conjugal Rights of Prisoners in Pakistan: A Socio-Legal Evaluation Under International Human Rights Framework

Abstract

This study critically examines a matter of recognition and implementation of conjugal rights of prisoners in Pakistan in a socio-legal manner that aligns with human rights normative standards across the globalized world. Although Rule 545-A of Pakistan Prison Rules of 1978 provides for a special meeting that may include a conjugal right, its implementation is negligible. This study is based on a qualitative research methodology that stresses a mix of doctrinal research, comparison, and a socio-legal study. It also surveys opinions from jurists, convicts, as well as prison administrations. This study highlights that in reality, without a commitment or acceptance at a macro-level in society, conjugal rights of prisoners in Pakistan remain adversely impacted. This paper concludes that it is imperative that Pakistan's penal policies conform to human rights standards within the criminal justice system to ensure human dignity and rehabilitation within it.