Maharashtra Prison System Faces Scrutiny Over Severe Overcrowding and Staff Shortages

The Maharashtra government recently disclosed to the Bombay High Court that its prison facilities are operating at 140 percent capacity. As of April 30, 2026, there were 38,515 inmates held in facilities designed to accommodate 27,503 people.

The data shows that undertrials make up the vast majority of the prison population, accounting for 82.61 percent of those incarcerated. Central prisons are experiencing the most extreme overcrowding, with Arthur Road Jail currently housing 3,534 inmates despite a capacity of 999.

Medical staffing remains a major concern, with 52 of the 100 sanctioned medical officer posts currently vacant. The state reported that 19 of 21 sanctioned psychologist and psychiatrist positions are also empty, forcing the department to rely on NGOs for mental health and de-addiction services.

The High Court has expressed ongoing concern regarding how overcrowding and long-term incarceration impact the mental health of inmates. The court has requested an update on remedial measures and scheduled a follow-up hearing for November 30.