Cops trying to change prisoners lives

Karimnagar: Right in the heart of the city, there lies Karimnagar Central Jail, which the passers-by rarely gives a second glance. There are many cell blocks in the building where several inmates stay, for committing various crimes ranging from theft to murder. Presently there are around 90 prisoners in the jail. 

Normally one think of a prison as having hardcore criminals with cells and nothing else. But the Karimnagar Central Jail is an exception with neat surroundings and full of greenery and flowering plants inside the premises. Beautiful paintings could be seen hanging in and outside the prison, giving a pleasant look. 

The Central Jail officials are striving hard to bring a change in the lives of prisoners by introducing various types of activities that may help them to stand on their feet and lead a respectable life in the society once their jail term is completed. The prisoners were provided computer education and a library. They were also taught a few professional skills to get jobs outside. 

The cops had set up a factory in the jail where prisoners will manufacture tables, chairs, dual desks, double and single cot beds, almirahs, stools and other things useful for schools and colleges.

The jail officials are running two petrol pumps with the prisoners under their supervision - one on the jail premises and another at Bommakal bypass road.

Karimnagar Central Jail Superintendent Dr D Dasaradharam Reddy said once the courts deliver judgment, prisoners will be brought to the jail. They will undergo medical examination by the prison doctor and if they are found suffering with any illness, necessary treatment will be given to them along with providing timely medicines.

First timers will feel homesick and develop a negative mindset. This is where the officials will try and give the new inmate an orientation, who will be in a state of hopelessness. After talking to them and help them understand their situation, the officials will try to build confidence among them.

It takes a few days for them to settle down and with time they will become friends with others in the prison and adopt to the prison routine. Inmates sentenced with life or 10 years imprisonment will get depressed. They could speak with their family members over phone and can meet family twice a week.

By installing CCTV cameras in and around the central jail, the jail officials will keep continuous and strict vigil on the movements of prisoners and are striving hard to bring change in the lives of prisoners.