Why should prison disciplinary punishments be proportional to the rule violation?

In the context of penology, it is essential that prison disciplinary punishments remain proportional to the rule violation to uphold the principles of justice and ensure the fair treatment of incarcerated individuals.1

Proportionality serves as a fundamental safeguard against the abuse of administrative power. When sanctions are not aligned with the severity of an offense, it can lead to significant injustices, such as the excessive detention of individuals for minor infractions. By ensuring that punishments correspond to the nature of the act committed, prison systems maintain order while respecting the rights of the accused.21

Furthermore, adhering to natural justice requires that disciplinary processes be transparent and equitable. This includes providing prisoners with notice of charges, the right to a hearing, and the opportunity to present a defense. When serious acts occur—those that would typically be classified as criminal—they should be addressed with greater gravity, often involving external oversight by civil police or judicial authorities to ensure that the response remains both appropriate and lawful.1