Haryana Director General of Prisons, Alok Kumar Roy, inspected the Karnal jail on Sunday and stressed the importance of counselling for prisoners, particularly to address mental health concerns.
Responding to a question on repeated suicide incidents among prisoners, he said counsellors are available in the jail, as many convicted prisoners fall into depression after being lodged there, which can sometimes lead to such incidents.
He said that many crimes are committed by people with no prior criminal background. When such individuals are sent to jail, the experience takes a heavy mental toll, often resulting in severe depression.
Backing his statement with data, Roy said, “Around 60 to 70 per cent of people in jail are not habitual criminals and remain in a state of depression.” Explaining the need for counsellors, he stated that such incidents can occur because crimes are sometimes committed without strong or deliberate intent.
He also responded to public criticism questioning why prisoners are provided work and food while serving their punishment. Highlighting the need for these practices, Roy said they are rooted in the principles of the Criminal Justice System.
Roy explained that the justice system is based on three concepts and that prisoners are given an opportunity to reform themselves.
“The first is punitive, which means appropriate punishment is given. The second is reformative, which focuses on rehabilitation and reintegration into society. The third is retributive, which reflects the idea of ‘an eye for an eye’, where the punishment is linked to the severity of the crime,” he said. These remarks were made in response to critics who argue that prisoners should not be given work or counselling as they are meant to be punished.
He added that the earlier culture of glorifying gangsters, which influenced young people, has largely been dismantled. He said prison life follows a simple routine, and the same awaits anyone who enters the system.
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