Convicts in UP jails can now open bank accounts
Convicted prisoners in the jails of the state will now have their saving accounts in nationalised banks where they will be able to deposit their wages.
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Convicted prisoners in the jails of the state will now have their saving accounts in nationalised banks where they will be able to deposit their wages.
The practice has already been started in Meerut and Aligarh jails where more than 500 prisoners have got their bank accounts opened so far. At other places,the Prison Department is identifying the banks near the jail premises where accounts could be opened.
ADG (Prisons) VK Gupta said the bank accounts would be opened for those convicted prisoners who have been convicted for a long term. Out of total 83,000 inmates lodged in 63 jails of UP at present,about 25,000 prisoners would have their bank accounts soon. Necessary orders have been issued to all jails, he said.
Wages at the rate of Rs 40 for skilled prisoners,Rs 30 for semi-skilled and Rs 20 for unskilled prisoners for each working day are paid to prisoners who are engaged in making of garments,sports goods,furniture and agricultural works inside jail premises.
Prison authorities said the banks were initially reluctant to opening of accounts but jail authorities convinced them by assuring that the jail staff would visit the banks regularly and operate the accounts on authorisation given by prisoners,under jail superintendents supervision.
At present,the earnings of prisoners are deposited with the office of the jail superintendent and they can withdraw these whenever needed. The balance is paid to them at the time of their release. However,the prisoners do not get any interest on their savings.
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