MP jails to be linked via video-conferencing

Bhopal, Mar 22 (UNI) Four prisons in Madhya Pradesh would be linked through video-conferencing this year, Jails Minister Antar Singh Arya informed the Assembly today.

Replying to the debate on budgetary demands pertaining to his Department, Mr Arya said, ''five prisons have already been linked thus. In view of the increasing number of inmates, two jails are being constructed besides barracks. Inmates' literacy level is being enhanced. More than 1,500 inmates appeared in exams at various levels.'' Under a cottage industry programme in prisons, Rs 1.80 crore were disbursed as honorarium to inmates. Legal aid was also being provided. A magisterial probe was ordered into an inmate's death at Indore Jail recently.

Budgetary demands exceeding Rs 84.65 crore were passed by voice vote.

UNI