125-year old prison rules amended

LAHORE:In line with the Chief Minister’s prison reforms vision, the Punjab Home Department has taken a significant step by amending the 125-year-old prison rules. In the first phase, 138 rules were updated to meet contemporary requirements.

According to a spokesperson of Punjab Home Department, these amendments aimed to safeguard human rights and ensure compliance with international laws. Special attention has been given to the rights of female inmates and children. Mental healthcare facilities have also been introduced, and the disciplinary system for inmates has been formalised. An appeals system has also been established to grant inmates the right to challenge their sentences, he added.

The spokesperson said that foreign inmates will now be provided consular assistance in accordance with international standards, and they will be able to follow case proceedings in their native languages. The reforms emphasised the provision of clean water, balanced meals, and hygienic environments in all jails across Punjab. Additionally, the appointment of medical officers, psychologists, and welfare officers has been made mandatory in every prison, with training for staff to enhance prison security, he stated.

He said under the new rules, inmates will have timely and confidential access to legal counsel. The Home Department is implementing these amendments in phases as part of its comprehensive prison reforms policy.