Undertrial need not cut hair grown for religious purposes: Madras High Court

The Madras High Court has ruled that an undertrial prisoner in Tamil Nadu, who has been growing his hair for religious reasons, cannot be forced to cut it. The court directed prison authorities to strictly adhere to the Tamil Nadu Prison Rules, specifically Rule 213(3), which governs the cutting of prisoners' hair. The decision was made after the prisoner's mother filed a petition, alleging that she was compelled to cut her son's hair and was not given a chance to represent her concerns.

The court noted that while the authorities can order haircuts or nail trims on medical grounds, they did not compel the prisoner to cut his hair in this case. However, if the length of his hair affected hygiene for other inmates, appropriate orders could be issued under Rule 213(3). The court also mentioned that the prisoner's right to a decent life and his religious faith were at stake.