National Prison Conference calls for urgent reforms, stresses need for psychologists in prisons

The first National Prison Conference, organised by the Prison World Organisation, concluded on March 21 with an emphasis on the urgent need for psychologists and social workers in India’s prisons. 

The two-day event was inaugurated by Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma, who stressed that comprehensive prison reforms are essential to reducing crime rates and reintegrating former inmates into society. 

The Prison World Organisation, led by former DG of Telangana State Prisons V.K. Singh has been advocating for prisoner welfare both during incarceration and post-release.

Experts, policymakers, and academicians highlighted that at least 25% of prison staff positions should be filled by mental health professionals to address inmates’ psychological well-being and aid their rehabilitation.

During the conference, Mr. Singh underscored the importance of establishing Prison Development Boards in states where they do not yet exist. A representative from the Bureau of Police Research and Development, Rajshekharan, agreed to issue advisories to states to begin the process of setting up such boards.

Another key takeaway from the conference was the call for a strong public-private partnership, bringing together government departments, academic institutions, NGOs, and corporate entities to drive meaningful reforms in correctional facilities. Telangana’s Director General of Police, Jitendra, attended the valedictory session and encouraged participants to take concrete steps toward improving prison conditions.

More than 65 professionals participated, including former Directors General of Prisons from Karnataka, Punjab, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Himachal Pradesh. Academicians such as NALSAR University of Law Vice-Chancellor Srikrishna Deva Rao and Tata Institute of Social Sciences professor Vijay Raghavan shared insights on rehabilitation strategies. Representatives from over 15 NGOs working in prison reform also contributed to the discussions.

Following the conference, a core group is expected to be formed to act as a pressure group advocating for essential changes in the prison and correctional system across various states.