The Punjab Home Department has launched a digital system aimed at prison reforms and improving inmate welfare by tracking sentence reductions and remaining jail terms.
Home Secretary Noor-ul-Amin Mengal inaugurated the system, which allows families of prisoners to receive updates on release dates through SMS. By sending a message to 8070, they can obtain details of the last two pardons granted and the expected release date for a nominal fee of Rs5.
Under prison regulations, inmates may receive sentence reductions or pardons for various reasons, including pursuing education, learning technical skills, and demonstrating good behavior. The system ensures that any approved pardons are promptly updated in an inmate’s record.
Mengal highlighted that this initiative aims to eliminate the challenges prisoners and their families face in obtaining sentence reduction records. The digital platform is expected to enhance transparency and efficiency in prison management.
Additionally, the Home Secretary directed the Directorate of Monitoring to carry out unannounced prison inspections to ensure compliance with regulations, warning that strict action would be taken against any violations.
