PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi inaugurated a modern security system at the Central Jail in Peshawar, which was completed for Rs 440 million.
During his visit, the Chief Minister reviewed the medical ward and the e-visit system. He met with the prisoners, listened to their problems, and issued immediate orders to address their concerns on the spot.
Additionally, he inaugurated a rehabilitation centre for drug addicts and a model interview room. Sohail Afridi announced a special two-month remission for prisoners in the province’s jails and stated that the provincial government would cover the fines for those prisoners who could not pay.
To enhance the facilities for prisoners, the Chief Minister allocated an additional Rs 20 million for the Central Jail in Peshawar and directed the establishment of a digital complaint cell for the prompt redressal of grievances. He also announced plans to solarise all jails in the province, initiated the establishment of a hospital within the jail, and proposed separate special cells for minor boys and women.
Sohail Afridi instructed that an Open Court (Darbar) be held next week to resolve the prisoners’ issues and ordered the corresponding provinces to transfer Khyber Pakhtunkhwa prisoners held in other provinces back to their home province. Furthermore, he emphasised the effective and strict implementation of the Parole and Probation Act 2022.
The Chief Minister stressed that the purpose of jail is not just punishment but reform, and he aims for prisoners to emerge as better, productive citizens. He stated that the government is investing in its people, and efforts will be made to strengthen and reform institutions.
Sohail Afridi announced that he plans to visit the Central Jail again in January, expressing hope that all legitimate demands will be resolved by that time.
In reference to the APS tragedy, he noted that December 16 is a heartbreaking day for the entire country, marking a sad chapter in the nation’s history.
