The Supreme Court of India has ordered the release of prisoners lodged in jails for minor offences. Background: The case was initiated by a petition filed by a human rights organization, which highlighted the plight of prisoners who were languishing in jails for minor offences due to their inability to pay fines or furnish bail bonds. Parties: The petitioner was represented by advocate Colin Gonsalves, while the Union of India was represented by advocate Tushar Mehta. Legal issues: The primary issue before the court was whether the continued detention of prisoners for minor offences was in contravention of the fundamental right to personal liberty guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution. The court also examined whether the state was obligated to provide legal aid to such prisoners. Court observations: The Supreme Court observed that the continued detention of prisoners for minor offences was a violation of their fundamental right to personal liberty. The court noted that the state had a duty to provide legal aid to such prisoners and ensure that they were released from jail as soon as possible. Significance: The judgment is significant as it highlights the need to reform the criminal justice system and ensure that prisoners are not languishing in jails for minor offences. The Supreme Court's decision demonstrates its commitment to upholding the fundamental rights of citizens and ensuring that the state does not overstep its authority. The release of prisoners is expected to bring relief to thousands of undertrial prisoners who are languishing in jails across the country.