Chief Minister Rekha Gupta revealed plans to relocate Tihar Jail to the outskirts of Delhi. This initiative aims to address severe overcrowding and improve prisoner welfare. The budget for 2025-26 allocates Rs 10 crore for survey and consultancy services related to the relocation process. Currently, Tihar Jail, established in 1958, is one of India’s largest prison complexes, housing over 19,000 inmates, far exceeding its original capacity of 10,025.
Current Challenges at Tihar Jail
Tihar Jail faces overcrowding issues. Originally designed to accommodate about 10,025 inmates, it currently holds more than 19,000. This situation leads to security concerns and challenges in maintaining order. The jail complex consists of nine facilities, with Jail Numbers 1 to 9 designed for approximately 5,000 inmates but currently housing over 12,000. Jail Numbers 10 to 16, which can hold around 3,700 inmates, are also overcrowded.
Proposed Solutions for Overcrowding
To alleviate the overcrowding, the Delhi government is developing new prison complexes in Narela. A proposal to retrofit existing facilities has also been suggested. This would involve vertically extending certain jails to increase capacity , potentially accommodating inmates for the next five to ten years.
New Initiatives for Prisoner Rehabilitation
The Chief Minister announced the formation of a society under the Delhi Jail aimed at prisoner reform and rehabilitation. This society will implement skill development programs to enhance inmates’ employability. The initiative also includes professionalising jail industries, ensuring that products made by inmates are prioritised in government procurement processes.
Economic Opportunities for Inmates
Inmates currently produce goods that are sold through outlets known as ‘Tihar Haat’. However, earnings from these sales are minimal. The new budget proposal aims to increase demand for these products, thereby enhancing the income of inmates. This economic opportunity is crucial for their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
Future of Tihar Jail
The relocation of Tihar Jail is step towards modernising the prison system in Delhi. By moving the facility to a less congested area, the government aims to create a safer environment for both inmates and staff. The focus on rehabilitation and skill development indicates a shift towards a more progressive approach to criminal justice.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically examine the implications of overcrowding in prisons on the justice system.
- Discuss in the light of recent prison reforms, how rehabilitation can be integrated into the criminal justice system.
- What are the challenges faced by prison industries in India? Explain with suitable examples.
- What is the significance of skill development for inmates? How does it contribute to reducing recidivism?