KP CM launches Prison MIS & e-visit app

PESHAWAR: Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur on Wednesday visited the office of the Inspector General of Prisons in Peshawar, where he launched the newly established Prison Management Information System (PMIS) and E-Visit App as part of the prison reforms and welfare of inmates.

According to a handout, during the briefing by the officials, it was told that the Prison Management Information System had digitized all prison affairs. Through this system, the operations of all 39 prisons in the province had been interconnected, not only with each other but also with the judicial system.

Similarly, the process of inmates’ court appearances has been digitized, allowing virtual court hearings via video link. The authorities informed that the E-Visit App had been introduced to facilitate online meetings between inmates and their families, eliminating the need for in-person visits to prisons.

Now, families can connect with their incarcerated loved ones from the comfort of their homes. Regarding other reforms, it was highlighted that Rs 1.2 billion was being spent annually on inmate meals, and after seven years, the prison food menu had been revised to ensure a balanced diet.

Geysers and air coolers have been provided in prisons to protect inmates from extreme weather conditions. The prison regulations were being aligned with international standards i.e. Mandela Rules and Bangkok Rules.

Modern medical equipment and improved healthcare facilities were being provided for inmates. To promote physical and mental well-being, sports competitions were introduced in prisons, and vocational training programmes launched to equip inmates with various skills.

Moreover, the prison industry was revitalized and linked with the market to provide financial benefits to prisoners. Officials reported that 317 inmates from KP, who were previously imprisoned in Punjab, were transferred back to the province.

It was added that the KP government was prioritizing the construction and development of prisons across the province. The completion of District Jail Swabi and Central Jail DI Khan will address the issue of overcrowding, while funds were approved for a new prison in Tank.

Similarly, five regional prison offices have been made operational to improve prison management. Rs 1.39 billion has been allocated for modern security equipment in prisons. The Prison Staff Training Academy in Haripur was upgraded with modern facilities.

The chief minister commended the officials for introducing the Prison Management Information System and implementing other reform initiatives. He expressed gratitude to the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime for their cooperation, stating that this partnership was a milestone in enhancing the prison system and inmate welfare.

Meanwhile, the chief minister also visited the office of the deputy commissioner of Peshawar, where he inaugurated the newly established Service Delivery Centre-II at the Mohafiz Khana. With the establishment of this new Service Delivery Center, the number of service counters had increased from 5 to 10, while the number of seats had been expanded from 20 to 60.