Jail construction not solution to decongest prisons, thinking out of box is: Tihar DG Sanjay Baniwal

Delhi’s Director General (Prisons), Sanjay Baniwal, has emphasized the need for innovative solutions to address prison overcrowding instead of solely relying on constructing more jails. In an interview with PTI, Baniwal highlighted the government and court’s commitment to exploring alternatives to reduce the current inmate congestion.

One proposed amendment involves considering bail for individuals who have completed their undertrial period after charges have been framed or those who have served at least half of their sentence with good behavior. Additionally, Baniwal suggested thinking outside the conventional approaches, such as introducing a pre-arrest concept. This concept, inspired by practices in foreign countries, involves restricting individuals within a designated area before formal arrest, although convicts would still serve their sentences in jails.

Also Read: Jharkhand HC Restricts DCs From Cancelling Property Registries

The three prison complexes in Delhi—Tihar, Mandoli, and Rohini—are currently accommodating 19,967 inmates, almost double their designed capacity of 10,026. Baniwal stressed the strain on the system due to overcrowding, affecting safety and security within the jails.

Regarding a new jail being constructed in Narela for high-risk prisoners, Baniwal highlighted specific measures, including an in-house court, in-house hospital, and video-conferencing in each ward, aiming to minimize inmate movement.

In response to challenges posed by high-profile inmates, such as Sukesh Chandrashekhar, Baniwal assured that appropriate measures were being taken. He mentioned efforts to prevent illegal activities, including raids on cells, staff rotations, and minimizing any potential nexus.

Also Read: Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde Led Shiv Sena Faction Declared As ‘Real Political Party’

Discussing technological challenges in jamming signals to prevent communication via mobile phones, Baniwal acknowledged limitations in real-time changes and the impact of external service provider towers. He also addressed the issue of illegal objects entering prisons, emphasizing the need for proper design and preventive measures.

Baniwal emphasized the importance of addressing criminal and defiant behavior inside prisons, recognizing each inmate’s unique history and baggage. He highlighted initiatives to improve inmates’ lives, including anti-riot training for those displaying persistent behavioral challenges. The ultimate goal, according to Baniwal, is to ensure inmates complete their sentences and find employment upon release.

In conclusion, Baniwal stressed the significance of adopting unconventional approaches and addressing the root causes of overcrowding to enhance the effectiveness of the prison system in Delhi.