Monday, 17 February 2025 | PURNIMA BISHT | DEHRADUN
The police are planning to introduce an open jail system at Suddhowala jail in Dehradun, allowing selected inmates to work outside during the day and return by a designated time in the evening. The jail administration has already submitted a proposal to the State government for approval. Under this system, eligible inmates will not be confined to their cells throughout the day but will have the opportunity to engage in employment and livelihood activities within a permitted radius. Only prisoners who have demonstrated good conduct, discipline and adherence to jail rules will be considered for participation. The initiative aims to help inmates reintegrate into mainstream society and become self-reliant after their release. The superintendent of police of Dehradun jail, Pawan Kumar Kothari stated that the jail houses inmates from various backgrounds, including both undertrial prisoners and convicts. He said that the administration takes steps to ensure their mental well-being and offers opportunities for reform. “The jail staff actively engage inmates in constructive activities, equipping them with skills that can help them sustain themselves once they return to their families. Many inmates are already involved in large-scale production activities such as furniture making, uniform stitching for prominent schools, bedsheet production for hospitals and shirt manufacturing for major companies. Besides this, some prisoners specialise in carpet weaving and crafting wooden furniture, including chairs, wardrobes, beds and sofas,” the SP said. He further informed that as part of the open jail initiative, selected prisoners will be allowed to work outside and contribute to various industries. The jail administration plans to sell their products at different outlets to provide them with a source of income and help them transition smoothly into society. He said that once the government grants permission, inmates chosen for the programme will leave for work at 8 AM and return by 5 PM or according to their respective work schedules. The administration will closely monitor the activities of participating prisoners to ensure the programme’s success. He said that the jail administration has also sought permission to set up a stall in the new court premises where these items can be sold directly.
