In a significant move focusing on prison reform and inmate welfare, Buxar District Magistrate (DM) Sahila conducted a comprehensive inspection of the district jail on Saturday. The visit underscored a dual focus on improving infrastructure and ensuring the holistic development of prisoners, marking a step towards more humane and rehabilitative incarceration.
Direct Address of Grievances and New Facilities Inaugurated
Chairing a special prisoners' court during her visit, DM Sahila provided a direct channel for inmates to voice their concerns. A total of 12 inmates submitted their grievances through formal applications. The DM directed Central Jail Superintendent Gyanita Gaurav to coordinate with the concerned departments and ensure a timely resolution of all cases. She assured the inmates that the administration's door remains open for them to continue submitting their issues.
Adding to the jail's amenities, the District Magistrate inaugurated the Chyavana Rishi Medicinal Park and an open gym on the prison premises. These facilities aim to contribute to the physical and mental well-being of the inmates, aligning with the vision of rehabilitation beyond mere confinement.
Review of Workshops and Expansion Plans
The DM took a detailed review of the various vocational workshops operating within the jail. These units, which are crucial for skill development, include:
- Textiles and tailoring
- Carpentry
- Spice powder production
- Manufacturing of caustic soda, Lifebuoy soap, and phenyl
DM Sahila instructed officials to expand these productive activities. She emphasized that products made in the jail should be sold through the 'Mukti' brand outlets to meet public demand, thereby creating a sustainable model and giving inmates a sense of purpose and skill.
Comprehensive Inspection of Jail Amenities
The inspection was thorough, covering almost every aspect of jail life. The DM examined:
- The prison radio station and library
- A smart classroom and telephone booth
- Drinking water facilities and the jail salon
- The jail hospital, kitchen, and overall cleanliness
- The progress of under-construction barracks
The visit was attended by senior officials including the Deputy Superintendent of Police, executive engineers from the building and electricity departments, the Civil Surgeon-cum-Chief Medical Officer, and the District Education Officer. In a symbolic gesture, the Jail Superintendent honoured these officials by presenting them with saplings.
Concluding her inspection, DM Sahila stated that all eligible government facilities would be provided to the inmates as per rules to robustly support their physical and mental development. This initiative in Buxar reflects a growing emphasis across regions on transforming prisons into centers of reformation and positive change.
