Petrol pump operated by jail inmates launched in Karnal
In a major step in prisoner rehabilitation, a new petrol pump run by jail inmates has been started in Karnal city under the supervision of the Haryana Prisons Department.
Director General of Prisons Mohammad Akil conducted an inspection of the Indian Oil fuel station on Sunday, reviewing the services and facilities being provided.
During the visit, he also interacted with the inmates working at the site. Superintendent of District Jail Lakhbir Singh and Jail DSP Vivek Sangwan accompanied him during the inspection and briefed him about the facilities.
DG Akil said that the first-such fuel station, operated by jail inmates, was launched in Kurukshetra and is running successfully. Inspired by its success, similar petrol pumps are now being operated in Ambala, Yamunanagar, Hisar, Sonepat and now Karnal. Plans are underway to expand this initiative to Faridabad, Nuh, Sirsa, Jind, Narnaul and Bhiwani.
He said that apart from providing petrol and diesel, this station would soon provide CNG. The revenue generated from these stations goes directly to the state treasury. Akil emphasised that there is no shortage of government funding when it comes to improving jail infrastructure or inmate welfare, including food and basic amenities.
“Only inmates with good behaviour records are selected to work at these fuel stations. They are paid wages as per jail regulations. This initiative not only provides them with valuable work experience but also instils a sense of discipline,” said Akil.
He maintained that such reforms help inmates reintegrate into society as responsible citizens, thereby reducing crime and encouraging rehabilitation.
Akil also highlighted that there are 135 different types of vocational activities conducted inside the jail. Separate libraries for male and female inmates are maintained to support their education. Strict security measures are in place to prevent unauthorised items from entering the prison and to ensure that no criminal activities are orchestrated from within. High-quality CCTV cameras have been installed throughout the prison for constant surveillance.
Haryana Tribune