The provincial government has inaugurated an online hearing facility for prisoners at Central Jail Peshawar to modernizing the jail system in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Friday.
The facility was officially launched by Caretaker Provincial Minister for Prisons and Social Welfare Justice (retd) Irshad Qaiser.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Qaiser highlighted the numerous benefits of online hearings for prisoners, including enhanced security measures and reduced transportation expenses. He emphasized that the facility will enable prisoners to appear in court remotely, eliminating the need for physical transfers, which often pose security threats and incur significant fuel costs.
The online hearing system will primarily serve accused individuals involved in serious cases, allowing them to participate in court proceedings without leaving the jail premises. Bail and release decisions will also be communicated electronically to the jail administration, streamlining the process and ensuring timely updates.
Qaiser further elaborated on the ongoing prison reforms, stating that the government is committed to improving jail infrastructure and providing vocational training opportunities for inmates. He mentioned that renovation work is underway at various jails, with four facilities, including Peshawar Jail, already completed.
In addition to infrastructure improvements, the provincial government is also prioritizing rehabilitation and reintegration programs for prisoners. Inmates are being provided with skills training to enable them to start their own businesses upon release, reducing the likelihood of recidivism.
The introduction of online hearings and the emphasis on prisoner rehabilitation reflect the provincial government’s efforts to modernize the jail system and promote a more humane and effective approach to incarceration. By leveraging technology and providing vocational training, the authorities aim to enhance security, reduce costs, and empower inmates to become productive members of society upon their release.—INP
