Goa Rights Panel Says 19 Bail‑Granted Undertrials Still Held Over Surety Shortage

19 undertrial inmates in Goa's Modern Central Jail, Colvale, remain behind bars even after courts granted them bail because they cannot pay the required surety. The Goa Human Rights Commission (GHRC) inspected the jail on Oct 13 and issued a report on Oct 23 highlighting the problem. The commission said poverty must not stop a person who is out on bail from gaining freedom. It found that 19 undertrials are still in judicial custody, with the lack of surety money being the main cause. GHRC will write to the principal district and sessions judges of North and South Goa, urging them to consider these cases with empathy. The report also noted that some cells meant for two prisoners are holding three, raising concerns about space, ventilation and sanitation. Overcrowding puts extra pressure on sleeping arrangements and personal hygiene. Mosquito nets in many cells are broken or missing, exposing inmates to bites and diseases such as dengue and malaria. A separate case showed an undertrial patient did not receive prescribed medicines for 45 days after a hospital visit, prompting the commission to call for prompt medical care for all detainees. GHRC recommends that each cell provide enough room, proper airflow, functional nets and timely health services to ensure humane living conditions for undertrial prisoners. ## Context