Behind the Bars: A Peep into Indias Prisons

The photo exhibition Cages to Correction is about prisons in 14 Indian states

The photo exhibition Cages to Correction is about prisons in 14 Indian states

The world of prisons is a closed one and not much is known by the general public about them,but they are nevertheless a microcosm of our society, says Dr Upneet Lalli,who has captured prisons in 14 Indian states as part of her research. The images are on display as part of an exhibition called Cages to Correction. According to Lalli,deputy director of the Institute of Correctional Administration,the idea was to break stereotypes about prisons and prisoners. The society,she says,has a right to know how prisons are run,since they are run to protect the society. Lifting the veil of secrecy that surrounds the prisoners and prisons,the exhibition,she adds,aims to educate the general public about this closed world.

It comprises photo depicting the architecture of various prisons,the life inside with scenes from the kitchen,sports and cultural activities and also the rehabilitation programmes run by various jails across India. Lalli has also captured friends and relatives waiting to meet prisoners,and women and children in overcrowded cells. Besides,artefacts created by the inmates of Kot Balawar Jail in Jammu and District Jail Karnal are on display,along with wooden furniture. The proceeds from the sale of these items will go towards the welfare of prisoners, said Lalli.

The purpose of the extensive research and photographs,says Lalli,is to bring to light the fact that reforms can come only once the society debates these issues. The exhibition aims to educate the general public about imprisonment as a mode of punishment and also to raise a few questions about the purpose of prisons, she says.

The exhibition is on at the Punjab Kala Bhawan till April 28

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