Prison Formation Day: Odisha declares sentence remission for over 400 prisoners

On Prison Formation Day on Tuesday, it was decided that the sentences of over 400 inmates lodged in 87 jails in the state will be reduced. This initiative aims to reward good behaviour and encourage rehabilitation among prisoners.

Those inmates who have been showing exemplary conduct would be given reduced sentences so that they may also get the feeling of being freed earlier than anticipated.

Among those set to benefit from this decision are inmates serving life sentences and others who have received additional penalties of one year. 

As per the jail manual, the Jail DIG has the authority to reduce sentences by up to 60 days for good behavior. Furthermore, Jail Superintendents can grant reductions of up to seven days for commendable conduct.

In the second round of this program, where even more inmates are expected to receive sentence reductions by April 2025. 

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This is a hopeful transformation in the minds of the inmates to make them productive members of society again.

"As per the rule, remission has been provided to over 400 convicts. DG, Prisons and Jail Superintendents have the rights to reduce the sentences from seven days to 60 days. The headquarters has sanctioned remission for 400 prisoners," said Arun Ray, DG of Prisons. 

As we celebrate this positive step forward, it is crucial to recognize the possibility of change in every person. This initiative not only symbolizes a new beginning for the inmates but also cements the belief that there is redemption power and the importance of giving people a second chance.