The High Court has authorised the Superintendent of Central Jail, Colvale, to administer oaths and affirmations for affidavits submitted in support of bail applications, providing relief to inmates who face difficulties completing mandatory legal formalities while in custody.

The direction came during the hearing of a bail application filed by Prasad Walke, who is lodged at Colvale jail. His counsel brought to the court’s attention the difficulties faced by prisoners in getting affidavits attested, as notaries are often unavailable or reluctant to visit the prison. The process can also involve expenses that many inmates and their families struggle to afford.

The court was informed that these obstacles can delay the submission of bail applications and create additional hardships for accused persons seeking legal relief.

Previously, prison officials lacked the authority to administer oaths for such affidavits, meaning documents attested by jail staff could not be accepted by the High Court registry. Inmates were therefore dependent on external notaries to complete the process.

To address the issue, the High Court relied on a similar order passed by a Division Bench in Kolhapur and exercised its powers under the Oaths Act to authorise the Colvale jail superintendent to administer oaths and affirmations specifically for affidavits required in bail applications.

The court has also directed that such affidavits must be processed within 24 hours of being presented to the superintendent, ensuring that inmates can complete the required formalities without unnecessary delays.