LG approves two panels to implement Centre’s scheme for financial aid to poor prisoners

Delhi Lt Governor V K Saxena has approved the formation of an “Empowered Committee” and an “Oversight Committee” to oversee the implementation of a year-old Central scheme aimed at providing financial assistance to indigent prisoners, according to officials at Raj Niwas on Friday.

The scheme, which will adhere to guidelines and standard operating procedures (SOP) outlined by the Ministry of Home Affairs, is expected to benefit 162 prisoners currently incarcerated in various Delhi jails due to financial constraints, the officials said.

The prison department has estimated the approximate amount required to assist these prisoners (161 under-trial prisoners and one convict) at Rs 23.79 lakh.

Officials anticipate that the scheme will not only aid financially disadvantaged inmates but also alleviate overcrowding issues in jails.

“The LG noted the delay in implementing the scheme, despite the Union Home Minister’s correspondence with the Delhi Chief Minister in May last year urging utilisation of the scheme, fully funded by the Centre. In June, the Union Home Secretary also reached out to the Delhi government to take necessary steps for its implementation,” said the official.

Saxena further emphasised that the scheme was included in the Union Budget 2023-24, underscoring the need for its prompt execution in accordance with the SOP issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

According to the proposal from the Delhi government’s home department, the “Empowered Committee” will include the district collector or District Magistrate, secretary of the district legal services authority, deputy commissioner of police, superintendent or deputy superintendent of the relevant prison, judge in-charge of the concerned prison, and a nominee of the district judge.

The “Oversight Committee” will comprise the principal secretary (home or jail), secretary (law), secretary (state legal services authority), DIG or IG (prison), registrar general of the high court, and special commissioner of police.

Officials outlined the scheme’s objectives, which include providing financial assistance to incarcerated individuals from socially deprived or economically disadvantaged backgrounds, enabling their successful reintegration into mainstream society upon release. (With inputs from PTI)