Yerawada Jail Overcrowding: 7,000 Inmates In Facility Designed for 2,300

The issue of overcrowding in Yerawada Central Jail has reached a critical level, with the prison holding inmates three times its sanctioned capacity. According to the official data, approximately 7,000 inmates are currently present here, including 200 female prisoners and four third-gender individuals. However, the facility is designed to accommodate only 2,300 inmates.

Speaking to The Free Press Journal, Jalindar Supekar, Special Director General of Police (Prisons and Correctional Services), said, "A total of eight new jails have been sanctioned by the administration for Maharashtra, including two new jails in Yerawada and others in Palghar, Baramati, Bhusawal, Hingoli, Narayan Doho and Gondia with a budget of ₹4,759 crore. These eight jails will be constructed soon. Their combined capacity will accommodate 11,307 inmates, with Yerawada Jail’s capacity increasing by 5,500."

"Overcrowding in prisons often leads to violence, lack of proper medical care and increased stress among inmates and staff. Inmates could suffer from skin diseases as a result of the conditions in the jail. However, the issue will be resolved soon once the construction of the new barracks is completed," he added.

He further stated that the Yerawada Jail has now been equipped with modern technology. "The facilities such as 69 e-kiosk systems allow inmates to independently access to get updates via login through biometrics such as court dates, parole status and furlough details by simply using their thumbprint. This system reduces reliance on jail authorities for basic inquiries and promotes transparency within the prison system. A smartcard-based telephone system that allows inmates to connect with their families. Daily around 400-500 inmates could use this facility, while approximately 800-900 prisoners could meet their relatives in person. Additionally, a video calling facility has been set up allowing inmates to have 20-minute virtual conversations per week," he said.

Furthermore, Supekar emphasised that, to bolster security, 812 CCTV cameras have been installed throughout the prison, ensuring 24x7 monitoring. "Moreover,1,000 televisions have been placed across the jail premises, not only for surveillance but also for inmate engagement and rehabilitation programmes. Nine washing machines have been placed for inmates to clean their clothes properly," he noted. "Earlier, the inmates could buy additional food up to ₹6,000 per month. It has been increased to ₹10,000 per month now," he said.

"A jail is not only for punishment but also for improving the skills, habits, and mindset of the inmates," Supekar further said, adding, "Accordingly many skill programmes such as mobile repair, tailoring, catering, and other technical training programmes are being conducted. With the help of these skills, they could survive outside the jail after getting the bail or being released," Supekar said.