Report on life term triggers jail strike

Inmates of Nashik Central Jail started a hunger strike today morning after they came to know of a report on a West Bengal court judgment that prisoners sentenced to life imprisonment can8217;t be released till their death.

The problem started after inmate Vilas Ghag, sentenced to 14-year life imprisonment, read a newspaper report on the court judgment. 8216;8216;As the newspaper article circulated, prisoners got worried about their future,8217;8217; said jail Superintendent Kishore Mahure, adding, that the authorities tried to allay their fears.

But, not totally convinced, inmates went on a strike on Tuesday morning, refusing even their morning tea. Over 700 prisoners serving life terms reportedly stayed off food on Tuesday. Though officials claim only 300-odd inmates were on hunger strike, unofficial reports say most of the 2,253 prisoners were protesting.

Inmates who run the kitchen have also joined the strike. On behalf of those serving life terms, Ghag had written to the government asking for an explanation of the rules.