Tamil Nadu: Prison canteens revamped, inmates now have biometric access

The inmates will now be able to buy items only through biometric authentication, fingerprint scan, or smart cards.

By: Express Web Desk
Chennai | Updated: July 4, 2023 04:53 PM IST

2 min read

s per the release, depending on their respective grades, prisoners can buy items worth Rs 750-Rs 1,000 per week. (Representational image via Unsplash)

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The Department of Prisons and Correctional Services has revamped all canteens in central prisons and special prisons for women in Tamil Nadu. Departmental sources said this was done to minimise irregularities and promote transparency.

Under the initiative, the prison canteens have been fully computerised with biometric access features. According to a statement issued Monday, Director General of Police (Prisons) Amaresh Pujari took the initiative to revamp the canteens three months ago.

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The inmates will now be able to buy items only through biometric authentication, fingerprint scan, or smart cards.

The rates of items sold through PCP (Prisoners Cash Property) canteens have been reduced and made uniform across all central prisons and special prisons for women, the release noted.

Also read | Wheat upma, tomato rice, pongal-sambar and much more: Food served at Tamil Nadu prisons undergo changes

“Soon after the inmates select their items, a bill will be generated and by submitting that to the prison officer, the inmates can avail their items,” an official said.

Through PCPs, inmates can buy soaps, biscuits, tea, coffee, coconut oil, toothpaste, fruits, and other items. As per the release, depending on their respective grades, prisoners can buy items worth Rs 750-Rs 1,000 per week.

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