THIS is with reference to the report ‘LHC calls for compre-hensive jail reforms in Punjab’ (Dec 26). This is, indeed, a step in the right direction. However, as mentioned in the report, the primary focus seems to be on building new prisons to resolve the problem of overcrowding and providing facilities that may make detention centres resemble a golden cage. While basic necessities are imperative and non-negotiable, the reality remains that a prison is still a prison.

As I see it, the focus should also extend to other depart-ments of the criminal justice system to address the root causes of overcrowding and avoid unnecessary incarceration resulting from inefficiencies in the system.

Moreover, the intrinsic issue of overcrowding begins with the registration of the first information report (FIR) by the local police. We frequently witness cases where individuals, once transferred to jail for minor narcotics offences or theft, return every few months, and secure bails and acquittals every time.

Additionally, the slow pace of adjudication further compounds the problem. This includes prolonged delays caused by judicial vacations, both summer and winter, similar to those of teachers, while inmates continue to languish in jail.

It would, therefore, be better and more practical if, along with addressing other aspects of jail reforms, attention is also given to the processes of sending people to jail, and ensuring that inmates do not languish unnecessarily due to systemic inefficiencies, particularly due to judges’ vacations.

Bilal Ahmed
Assistant Superintendent, Jail
Abbottabad

Published in Dawn, January 12th, 2025