Srinagar, Nov 5: J&K Prisons Department review took place on Thursday as Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha chaired a high-level meeting at Lok Bhavan. He assessed the department’s overall functioning and directed officials to strengthen prison security and management across Jammu and Kashmir.
The meeting focused on improving security arrangements and upgrading prison management protocols. Officials also discussed infrastructure, surveillance systems and welfare measures for inmates.
During the review, Sinha examined the functioning of prisons across the Union Territory. He directed officers to tighten security protocols and ensure strict surveillance. He also called for greater use of modern technology to make prison administration more secure, transparent and efficient.
LG Manoj Sinha Directs Stronger Prison Security
The Lieutenant Governor stressed the need to improve management practices and maintain discipline in prisons. He also emphasised humane treatment and rehabilitation of inmates in accordance with established rules.
Senior officers from the Prisons Department and other concerned departments attended the meeting.
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J&K Has 14 Functional Prisons
The Jammu and Kashmir Prisons Department provides correctional services and works towards the reformation and rehabilitation of inmates.
The Union Territory currently has 14 functional prisons. These include two Central Jails, 10 District Jails, one Special Jail and one Sub Jail.
However, the department faces a significant capacity challenge. Against an approved accommodation capacity of 3,629 inmates, prisons across J&K currently house more than 5,300 prisoners.
The department also operates the Institute of Correctional Services at Mishriwala. The institute provides basic and refresher training in prison management.
Besides, the department manages a Holding Centre as part of its administrative responsibilities.
J&K Prison Manual 2022 Introduces Reforms
The Union Government has recently notified the Prison Manual, 2022, for the supervision and management of prisons in Jammu and Kashmir.
The new manual follows the framework of the Model Prison Manual. It aims to strengthen correctional and rehabilitation services for offenders.
The guidelines focus on helping inmates reform and reintegrate into society after their release. They also emphasise safe, secure and humane prison institutions to improve public safety.
The latest review by LG Manoj Sinha comes amid efforts to strengthen prison administration, improve security arrangements and enhance rehabilitation services across Jammu and Kashmir.
–IANS
