Human rights team in Naini jail to probe ‘inhuman conditions’

Notorious for controversies and unlawful activities, Naini Central Jail authorities got a dressing down on Friday by a five-member team of the State Human Right Commission (SHRC).

On a visit to review the alleged "inhuman" living conditions inside the jail premises, the members expressed concern over "inadequate arrangements" within the jail premises and held talks with the district and police authorities.

The team was led by SHRC president H K Sema. The other members were Additional Director General Sailendra Sagar, Secretary A K Singh and officials Vishnu Sahai and Asha Tiwari.

The members inspected the Naini Jail Hospital, women wing of the jail, blanket manufacturing unit, cells of convicts serving life terms and the kitchen. Concerned over the prevalent situation, where the jail houses an increased number of inmates despite its capacity, the commission sought a list of those serving life sentences — over 80 years of age.

Several prisoners complained about the authorities providing unhygienic food, poor medical facilities and living conditions within the jail premises. The lifers, who were above 70 years of age, demanded mercy killing if the government was not ready to release them. The team assured them to take up the issue with the government.

According to sources, the commission has expressed its concern over the scarcity of doctors in the jail, especially women doctors. The hospital does not have proper facilities to treat patients in emergency.

The team has instructed Chief Medical Officer Dr P K Sinha to improve the medical facilities and organise regular check-ups for patients, especially the old inmates.

Later, the commission held talks with District Magistrate Rajiv Agrawal and Senior Superintendent of Police Lalji Shukla.

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