Hyderabad, June 2 (IANS) The Telangana Prisons and Correctional Services Department on Tuesday released 91 life convicts, who were granted special remission by the state government, on the occasion of Telangana Formation Day.

The department has also extended employment and rehabilitation support to facilitate their reintegration into society.

Among those released are 85 male convicts and six female convicts. All of them were identified as eligible for remission based on the guidelines prescribed by the state government.

With the aim of enabling the released convicts to lead dignified and meaningful lives in society and to foster their successful reintegration into the community, the Telangana Prisons Department has undertaken several initiatives.

According to Soumya Mishra, Director General of the Telangana Prisons Department, of the 91 individuals released, employment opportunities have been provided to 38 at various fuel outlets operated by the Telangana Prisons Department.

These appointments are expected to facilitate their immediate livelihood and aid in their smooth integration into society.

“The remaining 53 released convicts expressed interest in pursuing self-employment, agriculture, family businesses, and other independent professions. This reflects their resolve to rebuild their lives in a lawful and constructive manner,” Mishra said.

To promote women’s empowerment and rehabilitation, four female convicts were provided with sewing machines under a self-employment assistance scheme implemented through the Prison Development Fund.

Soumya Mishra added that this initiative is not merely about the release of prisoners, but marks the beginning of a new life characterised by responsibility, dignity, and hope.

She emphasised that every individual possesses the capacity for transformation, and that the objective of the prison system extends beyond merely imposing punishment to providing opportunities for reform and positive change.

She noted that the released prisoners have earned this opportunity through their exemplary conduct, discipline, and unwavering commitment to reform throughout their incarceration.

She urged them to make the most of this second chance granted by the state government, to lead law-abiding lives, and to become productive citizens who contribute positively to society.

She also encouraged them to maintain strong bonds with their families, contribute to the development of the community, and serve as role models for successful rehabilitation.

Mishra highlighted that the Telangana Prisons Department is continuously striving to transform prisons into centres for reform, skill development, and rehabilitation through various initiatives, including education, vocational training, employment-oriented programmes, counselling, and welfare schemes.

She also noted that the rehabilitation process does not conclude the moment a prisoner steps outside the prison gates; rather, post-release assistance remains crucial for ensuring their successful reintegration into society.

–IANS

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