MAPUSA
In response to a series of incidents involving the smuggling of prohibited items into Colvale Central Jail, the prison administration has issued a strict directive banning the delivery of outside food items to inmates.
The directive, issued by Superintendent Shankar Gaonkar, comes into effect from April 1 and aims to curb the inflow of contraband that has become a growing concern for jail authorities.
Over the past several months, multiple surprise raids conducted within the prison premises have led to the seizure of unauthorised items such as mobile phones, chargers, tobacco products and even narcotic substances.
These raids revealed that, despite existing security protocols, banned items continued to find their way into the hands of inmates, posing a serious threat to discipline and safety within the facility.
It has been routinely observed that relatives and visitors of inmates often bring food items during their visitation hours, some of which allegedly serve as covers for concealing illegal substances.
In a notice, Gaonkar stated, “the inmates of Central Jail of Colvale and their visitors are informed that no prisoner shall be allowed to receive food from their visitors from April 1.”
While the ban might inconvenience some inmates and their families, the prison authorities have clarified that adequate alternatives are in place.
The in-house prison canteen has been made fully operational and stocked with a variety of food and essential items. Inmates can now purchase additional food beyond their standard prison meals through the canteen.
“Prisoners can purchase additional food other than the regular diet from the canteen of Central Jail, which has been made functional,” Gaonkar added.
To facilitate this, the jail administration has instructed families and well-wishers of inmates to deposit money directly into the inmates' personal accounts maintained by the prison.
These funds can then be used by the inmates to buy required items directly from the canteen.
This system not only provides transparency but also ensures better regulation and monitoring of goods entering the jail premises.
The administration has urged all visitors to cooperate with the new guidelines, emphasising that the ultimate goal is to ensure the safety and rehabilitation of all inmates.
