Trichy Advocates Demand Urgent Prison Reforms Amid Administrative Crisis
In a significant development, a group of advocates in Trichy has raised serious concerns about prolonged administrative vacancies, alleged corruption, and violations of prisoner rights at the Trichy Central Prison. The advocates have urgently called upon the state government to implement immediate reforms to address the critical issues plaguing the facility.
Key Advocates and Their Demands
The advocates leading this initiative include N Sellappan, B Sathish, V Vijayalakshmi, M Saravanan, T Ravichandran, R Gopinath, R Sridhar, and S Parameswaran. Speaking to reporters in Trichy on Thursday, they outlined a comprehensive list of demands aimed at restoring accountability and human rights within the prison system.
Administrative Vacancies and Operational Delays
The advocates pointed out that the post of superintendent at Trichy Central Prison has remained vacant for over a year. Currently, the deputy inspector general of the Trichy Range is acting as the in-charge, but this arrangement has led to delayed decision-making, restricted access for staff and the public, and increasing arbitrary administrative operations. They emphasized the need for the immediate appointment of a permanent superintendent to ensure efficient and accountable administration.
Staff Welfare and Prisoner Rights
In addition to administrative reforms, the advocates called for prison guards to be granted casual leave without unreasonable restrictions or excuses related to staffing shortages. They also highlighted severe issues affecting prisoners, including the forced purchase of substandard and overpriced prison-made toiletries. To safeguard health, they demanded strict enforcement of FSSAI certification and hygiene standards for all sweets, savouries, and food items sold in the prison canteen to prevent health risks and potential disease outbreaks.
Economic and Safety Concerns
The advocates pressed for the timely disbursement of prisoners' wages to prevent family hardships, debt accumulation, and relapse into poverty. They also raised concerns about prison farms, calling for mandatory veterinary guidance, proper accounting and records for agricultural activities and tree sales. Furthermore, they urged the clearing of overgrown bushes near staff residential quarters to eliminate safety hazards from poisonous insects and snakes.
Governance and Access Reforms
To enhance oversight, the advocates called for regular monthly inspections by the district collector and other district officials. They also urged the government to allow at least five registered visitors per inmate and ensure unhindered access for lawyers to meet prisoners, in line with Constitutional provisions and judicial norms. These measures are seen as crucial for upholding transparency and justice within the prison system.
The advocates' demands underscore a pressing need for systemic changes to address the multifaceted challenges at Trichy Central Prison, with a focus on administrative efficiency, human rights, and public safety.
