BHOPAL: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Friday announced a one-month remission in the sentences of eligible prisoners on the occasion of Janmashtami, while also announcing plans to introduce open prisons for women and set up a mental health centre at the Central Jail in Bhopal.
Addressing prisoners at the Janmashtami celebrations at Bhopal Central Jail, Yadav said the remission would be granted to eligible inmates as per prescribed rules. He also said the state would increase the number of open prisons and make necessary provisions for women prisoners.
“Men already have the provision of open prisons. We will make efforts to establish a similar facility for women prisoners at the earliest,” Yadav said.
The Chief Minister said a mental health centre would soon become operational at the Central Jail in Bhopal. Jail Director General Varun Kapoor said the facility was being established to provide mental health support to prisoners.
Yadav also highlighted measures undertaken by the Jail Department to improve prison administration and facilities, including promotions to various posts, creation of new posts, construction of additional barracks and implementation of the new jail law. He said arrangements had also been made to provide prisoners with training in various crafts, Ayushman cards, and facilities for meditation and yoga.
“The creation of new posts and promotions will help ensure the smooth functioning of the Jail Department,” he said.
During the programme, Yadav fed jaggery and rotis to cows and interacted affectionately with children dressed as Lord Krishna. Prisoners presented a short play depicting episodes from Lord Krishna’s life, which the Chief Minister praised.
Yadav also felicitated six Jail Department officers and employees for various acts of bravery.
Kapoor said yoga, Parthiv Shivling construction and other creative activities in state prisons had set several records. Construction of new staff quarters was also underway.
Sports and Youth Welfare and Cooperation Minister Vishwas Sarang and Principal Secretary, Jail, Mukesh Chandra Gupta were present at the event.