Reform Over Retribution: AP House Passes Prisons Bill

The Andhra Pradesh government has adopted a reform-oriented approach toward prisoners, with Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha introducing the Prisons and Correctional Services (Amendment) Bill in the Assembly. The Bill was unanimously passed after discussion during the Budget session.

The Minister said prisons should function as reform centres rather than mere punishment facilities . In line with the Centre’s Model Prison Act, the state plans to categorise inmates based on their criminal history and behaviour, and provide opportunities for higher education and skill development to support their rehabilitation.

Special focus will be given to children staying with women inmates. Anganwadi centres will be set up inside prison premises to provide nutrition, education and healthcare.

The government also plans to expand open-air prisons , offering agricultural and vocational training to help inmates reintegrate into society.

During the debate, Ponnur MLA Dhulipalla Narendra Kumar highlighted a 30 percent staff shortage in the prisons department and urged the government to fill vacancies. He also called for clemency for elderly and minor-offence prisoners based on good conduct, and free legal aid for undertrial inmates.

The government assured that eligible prisoners’ release will be considered in accordance with legal provisions.