The state government is considering a proposal to release nearly 1,200 prisoners lodged in different jails of the state. Among them are 200 women prisoners. Most of these jailbirds are entitled to be released on mercy petitions or probation. Sulkhan Singh, the Inspector General (Jails) of Uttar Pradesh, said:“Nearly 1,200 mercy appeals of prisoners lodged in different jails are pending with us.” The officer added: “As per the government orders, I have asked the police and jail officials to immediately forward the proposals regarding their release.”These prisoners were selected on the basis of their good behaviour and health considerations, he added.Singh was in Faizabad to attend a review meeting for the release of prisoners with police officers of the ten districts of eastern Uttar Pradesh. Explaining the process of the release of prisoners, the IG said: “The Governor takes decision on mercy appeals moved by a prisoner. For release on probation, the decision is taken by district officers on the basis of a report submitted by the jail authorities, where the prisoner is lodged.” “Life convicts are also considered for release after they complete one-third the duration of their punishment,” he said.
