Mizoram jails face overcrowding as chief secretary reviews upgrades and video court facilities

Aizawl Central Jail and Central Women’s Jail are grappling with severe overcrowding as Mizoram Chief Secretary Khilli Ram Meena conducted an on-site review of infrastructure, inmate welfare, and new court connectivity on October 10.

 

Meena inspected preparations for video conferencing facilities that will link inmates directly with courts, a move aligned with the implementation of India’s new criminal laws — the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) — effective from July 1, 2024. The system aims to reduce prisoner transport outside jail premises.

 

At the Aizawl Central Jail, currently housing 917 inmates despite a capacity of 480, Meena reviewed administrative operations, healthcare services, and skill development initiatives under the SASCI scheme. Medical Officer Dr CT Lalruatkima presented a detailed report on available healthcare facilities.

 

The jail, established in 1986, is undergoing major renovation under the SASCI Fund. Of Rs 55 crore sanctioned for eight jails in Mizoram, Rs 13.925 crore has been allocated for the Central Jail’s upgrade, managed by contractors under the Public Works Department. Meena urged officials to ensure timely completion within the working season and stressed proper coordination.

 

Meena also met members of the Jail and Prisoners Welfare Committee, who reported overall satisfaction with current facilities and no major grievances from inmates.

 

At the Central Women’s Jail, which has a capacity of 96 but currently houses 148 prisoners, Meena inspected ongoing construction under the SASCI-funded Convict Ward Vertical Extension Project and the Undertrial Prisoners Ward.

 

Inspector General of Prisons R. Vanlalsawta and Special Superintendent HS Zosangliana accompanied the Chief Secretary during the visits, highlighting the administration’s focus on modernising facilities and addressing overcrowding.