ISLAMABAD: Secretary for Human Rights Allah Dino Khowaja on Wednesday emphasised the need for a comprehensive file management system for prisoners, aligned with the Nelson Mandela Rules, to ensure humane treatment and improve prison conditions.

The observation came during the eight meeting of the Implementation Commission on Prison Reforms, focusing on improving prison conditions and aligning them with international standards.

The session brought together home secretaries from Punjab, Sindh and Balochistan, the Inspector General of Prisons from Balochistan, AIG of Prisons from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and representatives from the ministries of interior, National Health Services and Regulation, National Commission for Human Rights and senior provincial officials.

The commission addressed pressing issues such as prison overcrowding and the necessity of establishing a new prison in Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT). Current facilities, particularly for under-trial prisoners, were deemed inadequate, posing significant health and safety risks.

The commission also recommended constructing hospitals and residential facilities for jail staff to enhance security and sanitation within existing establishments.

Provincial governments were urged to adopt Punjab’s healthcare services model in prisons, with a focus on mental health and primary care. The meeting also highlighted the Ministry of Human Rights’ initiative to establish day care centres in jails as part of the Women Empowerment Package, aimed at supporting incarcerated mothers and their children.

The Sindh Prisons Department was requested to share the Sindh Prisons and Corrections Services Act and Rules of 2019 with other provinces to facilitate legislative alignment. Provinces were encouraged to explore the establishment of a Resident Jail Ombudsman to expedite the redressal of prisoners’ complaints, a model currently under consideration in Punjab.

Additionally, the commission recommended that all provinces review their existing prison rules in line with international standards, specifically the Nelson Mandela Rules and Bangkok Rules, to address gaps and enhance oversight mechanisms. The draft rules for ICT prisons, developed by the Interior Division, would be reviewed in consultation with the Human Rights Division to ensure compliance.

Concluding the meeting, Allah Dino Khowaja urged provinces to strengthen legal aid mechanisms and oversight systems to ensure the fair and humane treatment of prisoners, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to upholding human rights standards.

Published in Dawn, October 31st, 2024