New Delhi:
Though the country is up in arms against the price rise, but for once, Tihar inmates aren't complaining.
The inmates can now look forward to a refreshing summer, as the jail authorities will be serving juicy mangoes and lemons instead of high-priced apples.
"We have decided to sell mangoes and lemons inside the jail canteen for prisoners so that they don't fall ill during the summers. Also, other arrangements are being made to not let them suffer from dehydration," said Suneel Gupta, spokesperson of Tihar Jail.
Sources said that earlier bananas and apples were being sold in the canteen, but since the prices of fruits have shot up, especially apples, the authorities have decided to replace it by mangoes, as it will be difficult for the inmates to afford it.
"Keeping in mind the hot weather conditions, we are providing more water for bathing and have also arranged for water coolers to serve cold water to the inmates. The authorities have also made a provision for lime water and ORS to avoid dehydration," said the sources.
In 2007, six prisoners and one jail warden had died in a week due to heat stroke inside Tihar jail, one of the biggest in Asia while 15 others fell ill. After the spate of deaths, Delhi High Court had ordered the release of 600 inmates in Tihar Jail who were booked under Section 107 (breach of peace) and 151 (preventive arrest to check commission of cognisable offences) of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) due to non-furnishing of surety, after furnishing a personal bond of Rs 2,000 each.
The inmates can now breathe in fresh air for a longer time as the lock-up timings have also been increased.
"The inmates can enjoy the cool weather in early morning and also in the evening. Earlier the jail was opened at 6 am and closed at 5.30 pm. But now the timings have been changed to 5.30 am to 7pm. All the fans in the cells have been repaired and more water coolers have been installed in jail hospitals," added the sources.
Ashok Yadav, a relative of Tihar inmate said, "It is a good step taken by the jail authorities as the inmates are most vulnerable to heat strokes inside the crowded cells."
A typical day for a prisoner in the largest central jail of Asia begins early. Prisoners have to wake up at 5: 30 in the morning and attend prayers. But during the day there is room for recreation.
Apart from working in the various departments inside the jail, they also have the facility of the library. They can participate in games like cricket, football and table tennis. There are spiritual and meditation courses also for the inmates.