Punjab introduces online system for prison reforms, inmate welfare

The Punjab Home Department has introduced a new online system aimed at reforming prisons and improving inmate welfare by allowing real-time tracking of sentence reductions and remaining jail terms.

Home Secretary Noor-ul-Amin Mengal inaugurated the system, which enables inmates’ families to receive updates via SMS about release dates and sentence adjustments.

For a nominal fee of Rs5, families can send a message to 8070 and receive a reply containing details of the inmate’s last two pardons and expected release date.

According to officials, inmates are eligible for sentence reductions through good behavior, educational achievements, or the completion of technical training programs.

The new system ensures that all such pardons are immediately reflected in the prisoner’s records.

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Mengal stated that the platform will significantly reduce the challenges faced by families trying to access information about their loved ones.

He also directed the Directorate of Monitoring to conduct unannounced inspections of prisons and warned of strict action against any regulatory violations.

The system is being hailed as a step toward transparency, accountability, and greater support for inmates and their families.